HC Deb 20 May 1975 vol 892 cc360-1W
Mr. Geraint Howells

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that there will be enough mutton and lamb of British origin available for the consumer during 1976.

Mr. Bishop

The lambing rate in spring 1976 will largely determine the level of home-produced mutton and lamb next year. With some increase expected in the breeding flock this year, however, I am satisfied there will be sufficient supplies of lamb available in 1976 to satisfy consumers' demand.

Mr. Geraint Howells

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the estimated tonnage of lamb and mutton that will be imported into this country during the next six months.

Mr. Bishop

It is not possible to allocate a proportion of the total expected imports of mutton and Iamb in 1975 to any particular time period since arrivals depend upon shipping schedules. Imports of mutton and lamb in 1975, however, are expected to be at the same level as in 1974, that is some 210,000 tons. And from June to November 1974, imports amounted to some 81,000 tons.

Mr. Spearing

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether the European Commission can insist on a common agricultural policy for sheep-meat to replace the policies adopted by the various member States.

Mr. Peart

No. The establishment of a common market organisation for sheep-meat would require the approval of the Council of Ministers.

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