HC Deb 23 April 1986 vol 96 cc161-2W
Mr. Foulkes

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what quantities of beef, butter and wheat have been exported to Libya in the current year under the EEC programme for assistance to the Third world; what has been the cost; from what fund the subsidy is met; what consideration has been given to halting this trade; whether he will now introduce an embargo on all trade with Libya; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Chalker

Libya is not one of the authorised recipient countries qualifying for European Community food aid and has received no such aid. My right hon. and learned Friend has raised with his EC colleagues the urgent need to examine what uncovenanted benefits Libya may have received from the Community's management of agricultural markets. The possibility of a trade embargo has been considered on a number of occasions; we have always concluded that it would be inappropriate and ineffective.