§ Mr. Stephen Rossasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what account he has taken of the latest figures relating to the export of live calves and the effect this is having on the home beef production industry; and when he will make a statement on his policy for the future of the trade.
§ Mr. BishopWhile calf exports in the first four months of this year have been running above the level for the same period in 1977, the total number of calves available to beef producers is broadly the same as last year because of lower calf slaughterings. The longer-term impact of current levels of calf disposals300W was assessed in the recent departmental report on the export trade in live animals. The Government hope to make a statement on the future of this trade when they have completed the formulation of their views.