§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Agriculture. Fisheries and Food if he has received evidence from egg producers which will enable him to take action under Article 135 of the Treaty of 544W Accession to restrain the import of French eggs.
§ Mr. BishopAs I told the House on 16th April—[Vol. 890, c. 611.]—we were not then persuaded, after careful consideration of all the evidence submitted by the industry, that we could put forward a case for controlling imports of eggs which would satisfy the terms of Article 135 of the Treaty of Accession. Prices rose in April by 5p a dozen to profitable levels, but have since fallen by 3p a dozen. We are watching the situation carefully, and should it become necessary we shall seek remedial action under EEC procedures.