Sir A. Hardasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is taking on present restrictions on imports of French beef to this country; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. SoamesFollowing representations by the French Government that the foot-and-mouth disease position in France had greatly improved, and after thorough investigation of the animal and public health aspects, the Secretary of State for Scotland and I are satisfied that the present total prohibition on health grounds of imports of uncooked beef and beef offals from France should now be lifted. Arrangements to give effect to this decision are being announced today. The French Government are seized of the importance we attach to our market not being disrupted. The amount to be imported on an experimental basis during the period to 31st March, 1964, will be up to 500 tons. Total supplies of beef and veal on the United Kingdom market, including home production and imports from all sources, in the first quarter of the year have averaged about 310,000 tons over the last three years.