§ Mr. CameronTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what representations she has received about the impact the cost of egg stamping is likely to have on small-scale egg producers; and if she will make a statement. [174202]
§ Alun MichaelDefra has received an estimated 3,150 inquiries on the Registration of Laying Flocks Order and the Egg Marketing Regulations—by far the majority of these were from producers wanting to know how to comply with the legal requirements. We have also held meetings with representative bodies, including the National Federation of Women's Institutes; the National Association of Farmers; and the Small Farms Association. For small-scale producers, a stamp and ink (that will last for years) can cost just a few pounds. Most small producers appear to have been satisfied that the costs are reasonable and can be borne comfortably.