HC Deb 02 February 1982 vol 17 cc110-1W
Mr. John Carlisle

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what are the proposals regarding the raising of the levy on imported fishmeal by the Sea Fish Industry Authority.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

The levy regulations recently submitted to Ministers by the Sea Fish Industry Authority propose a new rate of levy on imported fishmeal of 0.1750 pence per kilogram.

Mr. John Carlisle

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether the proposed increased levy on fishmeal will be beneficial to the compound feed industry.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

The use of income from its levy, including any amounts derived from fishmeal, is a matter for the Sea Fish Industry Authority which is currently considering its future programme. The authority has, I understand, discussed with organisations representing importers of fishmeal the possibility of it seeking to promote the advantages of using fishmeal in compound feed.

Mr. John Carlisle

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received regarding the proposed increased levy on fishmeal.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Representations concerning the proposed increased levy on fishmeal have been made to this Department by the Grain and Feed Trade Association Ltd., the United Kingdom Agricultural Supply Trade Association, the National Farmers Union and BOCM-Silcock. These representations are being considered.