European Community (Agriculture Council Meeting)

HC Deb 19 December 1980 vol 996 cc396-7W

Mr. Dykes

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, if he will make a statement on the outcome of the Agriculture Council meeting in Brussels on 18 December 1980.

Mr. Peter Walker

Agreement was reached that present arangements for the import of New Zealand butter will continue during the month of January at the equivalent of an annual rate of 95,000 tonnes. Discussion on the Commission proposal for a new arrangement for continuing access for New Zealand butter will be resumed in the New Year.

Arrangements for the application of the common agricultural policy to Greece from her accession to the Community on 1 January were agreed.

The Council resumed its discussions on the Commission's proposals for a new sugar regime; and on the import arangements for calves and beef, including manufacturing beef, form third countries. But no agreements were reached on these matters.