HC Deb 25 March 1976 vol 908 cc233-4W
36. Mr. Wakeham

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what he estimates will be the additional cost to the Exchequer from the revised beef deficiency scheme.

Mr. Peart

The total Exchequer cost of beef premiums in 1975–76, after crediting the EEC contribution, is estimated at £40 million. At this stage in the new marketing year, it is too early to give a precise forecast of the cost in 1976–77, but taking into account the likely market situation, the Exchequer cost may be of the order of £22 million—£30 million. Community funds will be contributing 25 per cent. of the cost of the premiums from 1st September 1976 onwards.

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