HC Deb 19 November 1987 vol 122 cc651-2W
13. Dr. Thomas

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received concerning proposed changes in the European Community sheepmeat regime.

Mr. MacGregor

I have received a number of representations from producers, the slaughter industry and trade, consumer and environmental bodies.

54. Mr. Hood

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he next proposes meeting representatives of the National Farmers' Union to discuss the future of the European Community sheepmeat regime.

Mr. Donald Thompson

I refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave today to the hon. Member for Caerphilly (Mr. Davies).

56. Mr. Colin Shepherd

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what progress there has been within the Council of Ministers regarding the reform of the sheepmeat regime.

Mr. MacGregor

I refer my hon. Friend to the reply given today to the hon. Member for Bolsover (Mr. Skinner) on the outcome of the Council of Ministers.

Mr. Wallace

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he last met European Community Agriculture Ministers to discuss the future of the sheepmeat regime.

Mr. Donald Thompson

I refer the hon. Member to the reply that my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food gave today to the hon. Member for Bolsover (Mr. Skinner).

Ms. Armstrong

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how he intends to protect the interests of sheep farmers in the upland areas following the EEC proposals for changes in the sheepmeat regime.

Mr. MacGregor

Our sheep sector has expanded to meet a growing proportion of our market needs and to develop exports. I intend to ensure that our sheep producers can continue to capitalise on their natural advantages under a fair and equitable Community regime.