HC Deb 29 July 1974 vol 878 cc60-1W
Mr. Michael Latham

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he has completed his consideration of the possibility of assembling more detailed statistics of cheese subsidy payments; and with what results.

Mr. Bishop

Yes. Statistics will be maintained which distinguish between home-produced Cheddar and Cheshire and other United Kingdom territorial cheeses; and imports will be grouped under three headings—Cheddar and Cheshire, Gouda and Edam and other imported varieties.

Mr. Michael Latham

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the total value of subsidy payments made on (a) United Kingdom-produced cheeses and (n) imported cheeses since 5th July.

Mr. Bishop

Between 6th July and 26th July £1,131,192 was paid on United Kingdom-produced cheese and £636,605 on imported cheeses.

Mr. Michael Latham

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether there has been any change in the staffing establishment of the cheese subsidy section of his milk and milk products division since 16th May; and what is the present establishment.

Mr. Bishop

Yes. A second clerical officer has been added.

The section now comprises one principal, one higher executive officer, one executive officer and two clerical officers.