§ Mr. Freudasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what has been the volume of fruit pulp imports from Iron Curtain countries in each of the last three years; what is the expected volume of these imports for 1980; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WigginImports in the last three calendar years have been as follows :
1977 5813 tonnes 1978 5496 tonnes 1979 5257 tonnes It is not possible to forecast the figure for 1980.
We collaborate with the European Commission in maintaining close surveillance of such imports.
§ Mr. Freudasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what he estimates will be the long term effects upon the horticulture industry in East Anglia of permitting low priced imports of fruit pulp from eastern European countries;
(2) whether he is satisfied that the terms for foreign imports of fruit pulp are negotiated in the best interest of British fruit growers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WigginI am aware of some concern in the hon. Member's constituency about certain imports from third countries and I will urgently examine any evidence of dumping or unfair competition.