HC Deb 06 November 1974 vol 880 cc160-1W
Mr. Bulmer

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he proposes to take to promote growth in the output of British agriculture in 1975, 1976 and 1977 in each major sector.

Mr. Bishop

Discussions with the interests concerned about the long-term future of the industry are in progress. We are at present awaiting the views of the Farmers' Unions on future levels of output. For the shorter term we shall pursue our objectives in the course of the annual review and in the discussions on the fixing of Community farm prices for 1975–76.

Mr. Bulmer

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will take steps to inform the public about the true cost of home grown food.

Mr. Bishop

I think that the British public are already conscious of the high costs of production which farmers now have to face. My right hon. Friend has recognised this in public statements and will continue to do so. Information on costs will, as usual, be included in the next Annual Review White Paper.