§ Sir C. Osborneasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what will be the principal effects on British agriculture of the French Government's proposals for agriculture for the Common Market; what steps he proposes to take to protect British agricultural interests as a consequence; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PeartMuch of the Community's common agricultural policy is already in force and this has not directly affected British agricultural interests. I cannot speculate in advance about the completion of their policy by the Six or the separate proposals of member Governments. It is clear, however, that the welfare of British agriculture must increasingly depend on arrangements for more stable and orderly marketing of all our food supplies, both imported and home produced. The Government will continue to take full account, particularly at the Annual Review, of all factors affecting the economic condition and prospects of the industry, including developments in the supply and marketing situation at home and abroad.