HC Deb 17 February 1983 vol 37 cc245-6W
22. Sir Marcus Kimball

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the present level of profitability in the United Kingdom pig industry.

38. Mr. Latham

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will make a statement on the current problems facing pig producers and any intended Government action to assist.

47. Mr. Geraint Howells

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied with the present state of the pig industry; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

The pigmeat market is cyclical in character. Profitability was very good at the end of 1981 and the beginning of 1982 but currently the market is weak. A scheme of aids for the private storage of pigmeat has been introduced and export refunds increased.