§ Mr. ChopeTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what action the Government are taking to secure compensation for British farmers who suffered loss as a result of the action of the French Government in continuing to ban British beef following the breach of the European Court of Justice ruling of December 2001; and if she will make a statement. [151345]
§ Mr. Bradshaw[holding answer 27 January 2004]The Government cannot claim compensation because they have no direct commercial interest. Those parties who were directly affected by the illegal French ban must decide for themselves whether to seek such compensation for losses.
However we will provide information and practical assistance (although not financial support or detailed legal advice) to exporters who wish to pursue claims for compensation.