§ Mr. Buchanasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what have been the percentage changes in CAP prices for the main commodities between 1965 and 1975; and how these compare 107W with price changes for the same commodities in the United Kingdom;
(2) how often the CAP prices for beef, butter, cheese, wheat and maize, respectively, have been increased and by what percentage amounts;
(3) what mechanisms exist within the EEC for reducing agricultural prices;
(4) how frequently during the last 10 years CAP prices have been reduced, and on which commodities.
§ Mr. BishopSingle common support prices were not established for the main commodities before 1967–68. Information about EEC prices from 1967–68 to 1974–75 can be obtained from booklets on EEC common and United Kingdom transition prices produced by my Department. I am sending my hon. Friend copies of these booklets. Copies have also been placed in the Library of the House. In addition, I am sending my hon. Friend a copy of my Department's Press notice giving the EEC support prices for 1975–76.
The EEC Council of Ministers determines the main support prices. Prices can be increased or decreased. The level of support prices has generally decreased in real terms over the years.