§ Mr. Spellerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will seek a further substantial increase in the suckler cow premium; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. JoplingThe maximum rate for the suckler cow subsidy was considered in the course of the discussions on beef support arrangements in the Agriculture Council which concluded on 16 December, 1986. The United Kingdom pressed for a substanital increase, and the Council's agreement included a 10 ecu increase in Community funding for the suckler cow premium. The current rate of suckler cow premium in the United Kingdom is £24.74. Following the December agreement it would be possible to raise this by 35 per cent. to £33.40 in 1987–88. I hope to announce shortly the actual rate which will be paid.