§ Mr. David Nicholsonasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what representations he has had since 1 July regarding the impact of dairy inspection charges on smaller farm units; and whether he will list the organisations making such representations;
714W(2) whether he has any plans to change the pattern or the administration of dairy inspection charges, insofar as these affect smaller farm units; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonI have received representations from individual farmers, from their Members of Parliament and from organisations such as the NFU and the MM B. The original proposals were modified to reduce the impact of charging on small producers, including those in the untreated milk sector. But the search for economies is continuing and any reduction in costs will be passed on to producers.