HC Deb 17 December 1968 vol 775 cc358-9W
Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will now make a statement on the outcome of his negotiations on exports of cheddar cheese to the United Kingdom.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

As I explained in reply to a Question on 6th November, I decided to extend to 31st March, 1970, the proposed period of restraint on exports of cheddar and cheddar-type cheese to our market. I regret, however, that although a substantial measure of cooperation has been forthcoming, it has not yet been possible to obtain the agreement of all our principal suppliers to the necessary limitation of sendings. Meanwhile the National Farmers' Unions and the Milk Marketing Boards submitted yesterday to my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade an application for the imposition of anti-dumping or countervailing duties on certain imported cheese. My right hon. Friend has told me that the application will be considered as speedily as possible.—[Vol. 772, c.106.]