§ Mr. Pavittasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will publish in the Official Report the details of fiscal and legislative measures applying in Greece, Portugal and Spain which inhibit the export of wines unless they have been bottled at source; what would be the likely effect on British importers of wine if these three countries join the EEC; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WigginThe latest position is as follows:
I am not aware of any fiscal or legislative measures inhibiting exports from Greece.
As regards Portugal, vintage port may only be exported in bottle. Other port is not so restricted. An export tax is levied on all port exports. The rate for bulk is twice that for bottled but the latter carry a "guarantee stamp" tax roughly equal to the difference. There are no special arrangements for light wine exports.
In Spain the Government pay restitutions on exports of all wines at 14 per cent. of total value for bulk and 16 per cent. for bottled wines. These offset indirect domestic taxes levied at the production stage. Rioja wine exporters voluntarily restrict sales to certain markets, including the United Kingdom, to bottled wine.
As regards enlargement, Greek accession will not affect relative imports of bulk will not affect relative imports of bulk and bottled wines. During the detailed negotiations on Spanish and Portuguese 248W accession, yet to take place, all their wine legislation will be scrutinised for compatability with the Treaty of Rome. This should ensure removal of mechanisms not compatible with the principle of the free movement of goods.