§ Mr. Newensasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether 297W United Kingdom membership of the European Economic Community is likely to affect the operations of agricultural marketing boards either now or in the future; if so, to what extent it will be possible to create alternative forms of organisation to replace their functions; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BishopMembership of the Community involves changes in our arrangements for individual commodities as a consequence of adopting the Community system. The effect on the functions and operation of the agricultural marketing boards has to be considered in relation to the circumstances of the individual commodities concerned. Until this issue has been further considered in the light of discussions within the Community it is premature to consider what detailed changes may be required.