§ Mr. Nicholsonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what effect the 1984 European Economic Community farm prices review and the 20 per cent. reduction in the maximum variable beef premium will have on consumers in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ButlerThere should be no significant change in prices to consumers as a consequence of the recent price fixing.
§ Mr. Nicholsonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what will be the effect on the beef sector in Northern Ireland when clawback of variable premium takes effect; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ButlerIt is too early yet to assess the effects of clawback. The beef industry has lost the advantage it had140W of receiving beef premium payments on exports of beef. However, I am confident that adjustments to the new circumstances can be made quickly and that the industry will take full advantage of the opportunities open to it.
§ Mr. Nicholsonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what percentage of beef produced in Northern Ireland is exported to (a) other European countries and (b) to Third-world countries.
§ Mr. ButlerIn 1983, 29 per cent. of Northern Ireland beef production was exported to other member states of the European Economic Community and 8 per cent. to third countries, that is, countries outside of the EEC. The amount exported to Third world countries was minimal.