HC Deb 22 February 1978 vol 944 c662W
Mr. Mudd

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what effect the decision to allow cheap potatoes to be supplied direct to processors will have on wholesale prices; and if he will indicate the total sum by which taxpayers' money will be used in continuance of the support buying programme.

Mr. Bishop

The arrangements for enabling processors to purchase potatoes contracted under the Potato Marketing Boards support buying programme will not directly affect wholesale prices. The cost of the buying programme, and thus the Exchequer's share cannot be determined until the final extent of the programme is known but the special scheme for processors should reduce the total commitment.