HC Deb 14 December 1978 vol 960 cc266-7W
30. Mr. Spearing

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is his latest estimate of the tonnages of principal EEC food surpluses to be disposed of on world markets during 1978.

Mr. Bishop

Latest forecasts for disposal on world markets at below full EEC price levels in the 1978 crop or marketing years are as follows:

  • Beef—150,000 tonnes
  • Butter—155,000 tonnes
  • Skimmed Milk Powder—475,000 tonnes
  • Sugar—3.48 million tones
  • Cereals—8.8 million tones

These figures include exports in the form of food aid.

47. Mr. Marten

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what proposals he has made to the EEC for reductions of the surplus of dairy products.

Mr. John Silkin

I have on numerous occasions made clear my view that it is essential to reduce the level of support prices for milk and milk products if a balanced market is to be re-established in this sector.