§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the total cost to public funds of the Apple and Pear Development Council; and if he will make a statement on its future rôle and activities.
§ Mr. MoyleThe Apple and Pear Development Council is financed entirely by a levy on growers with five acres or more of apples and pears other than cider apples or perry pears. In accordance with Section 8(3) of the Industrial Organisation and Development Act 1947 we are currently consulting the council and organisations representing growers and agriculture workers as to whether the council should continue in being, and if so whether the order under which it was established should be amended in any respect. The outcome of these consultations will be announced towards the end of the year.