HC Deb 18 July 1986 vol 101 c640W
Mr. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what changes are proposed concerning the importation into the United Kingdom and the European Economic Community of basmati rice from India and Pakistan; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Alan Clark

The Commission has proposed a 50 per cent. reduction in the levy for imports of 15,000 tons of basmati rice. The proposal is intended to help both India and Pakistan but in its present form appears unlikely to do so. The Commission has been asked to reconsider its proposal to improve benefits to India and Pakistan and to minimise any damage to the Community rice milling industry.