§ Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consideration has been given to the European Assembly working document 506/75 concerning a proposal for a regulation establishing a system of aid for associations of beekeepers; what consultations have taken place with United Kingdom beekeepers; what benefits would derive from the implementation of the proposals and at what cost; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. StrangThis proposal is being examined by officials. Consultations with representatives of United Kingdom beekeepers are expected to take place shortly. It is not yet possible fully to assess the implication of the proposal. The Commission estimates the total cost of the proposed measures to be 9 million units of account over three years, half of which will be borne from the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund and half from member States.