HC Deb 22 February 1978 vol 944 cc662-3W
Mr. Banks

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what evidence he has that EEC grading regulations for produce are being applied differently in member countries.

Mr. Bishop

The available evidence, including that from the produce of other member States examined at the point of entry into the United Kingdom and from experience with our own exports, does not suggest any marked discrepancy in the standards applied by member States.

Mr. Banks

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will publish the numbers of inspectors employed in the grading of produce and the costs involved.

Mr. Bishop

No officials of the Ministry are employed to grade agricultural or horticultural produce for marketing. It is the responsibility of the industries concerned to meet grading standards where these are specified.

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