§ Mr. Nicholas Edwardsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the present levels of profitability for British beef producers and the increase in costs they have had to bear; and what his policy will be at the next meeting of the Common Market Council of Ministers on agricultural matters.
§ Mr. BuchanThe levels of profitability and extent of cost increases for British beef producers vary widely according to the methods of production. Precise assessments would depend upon individual circumstances. My right hon. Friend's aim at the next meeting of the EEC Council of Agriculture Ministers will be to ensure that the beef sector receives returns sufficient to maintain expansion of production.