§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received concerning the Importation of Milk Regulations 1983.
§ Mr. JoplingI have received many representations from individuals and organisations not only in different parts of the milk industry but also representing consumers. Particular concern has been expressed about the possible effect of imports under the regulations upon the doorstep delivery service. However, I know that the dairy industry is well aware of the need to keep itself as competitive as possible, and I welcome the steps it is taking to persuade consumers of the benefits of having fresh pasteurised milk delivered to the doorstep. This is because in the last resort the future of this unique service can be assured only by the continued support of consumers.
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what factors led to his decision to introduce regulations to permit the import of sterilised milk;
(2) what factors led to his decision to introduce regulations to permit the import of frozen pasteurised cream.
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§ Mr. JoplingThe importation of milk regulations provide for the importation, subject to public health safeguards, of sterilised milk and frozen pasturised cream because, in the light of the judgment of the European Court in case 124/81, I consider such provisions necessary to comply with the United Kingdom's obligations under Community law, including articles 30 and 36 of the Treaty of Rome. I have also had in mind the fact that there is an existing trade in sterilised cream and in frozen pasteurised cream.
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in the event of the Importation of Milk Regulations 1983 not having been debated by both Houses before 16 November, the date when they come into operation, he will introduce amending regulations so that the regulations do not come into force before they have been so debated.
§ Mr. JoplingNo, but a debate in this House has now been arranged for 16 November.
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is his assessment of the likely total job losses in the collecting, processing and distribution of milk if the doorstep delivery service collapses as a result of imports of ultra-heat treated milk, sterilised milk and frozen pasteurised cream.
§ Mr. JoplingIt is not possible to provide a reliable estimate, but I know that all those employed in the industry are well aware of the need to be as competitive as possible, in order to retain the support of the British consumer.