§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food on what basis within the EEC Irish farmers are being permitted to export lamb to France without a levy whilst British farmers are prevented from obtaining the same terms; and what action he has taken or intends taking to counter this discrimination against the British sheep rearing and exporting industry.
§ Mr. BishopThe removal of levies on lamb exports from the Republic of Ireland to France is based on a "gentleman's agreement" between the Irish and French Governments. My right hon. Friend has made it clear that the United Kingdom Government regard this discriminatory step as totally unacceptable and have requested the EEC Commission to take action under the EEC treaty with a view to bringing this discrimination to an end.