HC Deb 16 November 1977 vol 939 c220W
Mr. Fernyhough

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what was the estimated value of fruit and vegetables destroyed in the EEC in 1976; what were the quantities of each; and what was the total amount paid in compensation to the growers.

Mr. Strang

Community arrangements operating at times of surplus provide for withdrawal of certain items by recognised producer organisations, who receive compensation at well below normal market prices when produce is disposed of in approved ways. Where possible, the withdrawn produce is utilised by charities, for animal feed or for processing but inevitably, because it is highly perishable, some becomes unfit for use and may have to be ploughed in or otherwise destroyed.

will be reconsidering the various sectors, including livestock, in the light of the changed circumstances since 1975; and written views are currently being received from a number of interested bodies. It is still too early to say what figures may emerge from the review or how the conclusions may be presented.