§ Mr. Hunterasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in the light of the fact that European Economic Community grain prices have dropped to approximately world prices and that there has been a record harvest, he will give full encouragement to the export of cereals from the United Kingdom by extending export credit guarantees and by other means.
§ Mr. MacGregorGrain exports so far this season have been at a level which compares well with that of previous seasons. I recognise that the United Kingdom is now a major exporter of cereals. I am always ready to consider measures to encourage exports which are cost effective and consistent with the Government's overall policy objectives. It is not clear how far changes in export credit arrangements for cereals would meet these criteria. But my Department is currently considering with the other Departments concerned what changes, if any, might be feasible.