HC Deb 24 July 1986 vol 102 c499W
Mr. Speed

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what current steps he is taking to encourage the brewing industry to use more English hops.

Mrs. Fenner

United Kingdom brewers' requirements for hops, including those produced by English growers, have been declining for a variety of reasons. Essentially, however, commercial considerations, including variety and price, dictate the purchasing policies of the brewers and it would not be appropriate for the Government to seek to influence their decisions.