HC Deb 01 March 1984 vol 55 c324W
34. Mr. Farr

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether the proposal to dismantle the scheme of variable premium payments to beef producers has yet been considered by the Council of Ministers; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. MacGregor

It was discussed at the Council of Ministers on 6 and 7 February but no decision was reached. We made it clear that we saw no justification for the Commission's proposals as a means of achieving economies. In our view, the scheme has served producers and consumers well.