HC Deb 11 December 1968 vol 775 cc152-3W
106. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will announce the results of his consultations with foreign Governments about the future of the Bacon Sharing Agreement; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hoy

Multilateral discussions on the future of the Bacon Market Sharing Understanding will take place next week. My right hon. Friend will make a statement on the results as soon as possible thereafter.

107. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will announce his conclusions regarding the operation of the new standards of bacon selection which have operated since May, 1968.

Mr. Hoy

My right hon. Friend was pleased to see the new standards of bacon selection for Wiltshire side production which were introduced by the British Bacon Curers' Federation in May this year. It is encouraging that this substantial section of the industry has improved its grading in this way.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will complete consideration of the Worth Report on the bacon curing industry; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Hoy

The Worth Report considered various matters concerning the bacon curing industry, including the bacon curing industry stabilisation arrangements and the Bacon Market Sharing Understanding. The Bacon Market Sharing Understanding is in the course of review with our overseas suppliers, and we are continuing discussions with the industry about the future of the stabilisation arrangements. My right hon. Friend hopes to make a comprehensive statement on these matters as soon as possible.