HC Deb 09 May 1972 vol 836 c319W
79. Sir T. Beamish

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what reply he has received to his representations about the refusal of the French Government to allow the import of Sussex cattle; and if it is his policy to support a liberal and reciprocal policy on the export and import of cattle between France and Great Britain.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

Those wishing to import new breeds into France require the backing of theCommission Nationale d'Amelioration Genetique and this has been explained to the Sussex Society. So far as imports into this country are concerned, the Royal Agricultural Societies' new panel, whose membership is based upon the industry, now advises on priorities. My right hon. Friends are anxious to encourage exports of our breeds but they do not wish to disturb these arrangements under which both countries have their own machinery for resolving their own needs.