Agriculture Industry

HC Deb 22 October 1987 vol 120 cc887-8W

16. Mr. Allen

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will take steps to establish an independent national agricultural support system to replace the common agricultural policy in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. MacGregor

No. The treaty of Rome provides for a common agricultural policy. The Government's approach is to work with our partners for its reform, to bring it into closer touch with market realities, and to reduce surpluses and their associated budgetary costs.

18. Mr. Baldry

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has any plans to meet leaders of the agriculture industry in the near future.

Mr. MacGregor

I have frequent meetings with leaders of the agriculture industry.

34. Mr. Colin Shepherd

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will next meet the President of the National Farmers Union to discuss the sheep sector of the agriculture industry.

Mr. MacGregor

I maintain regular contacts with the President of the NFU on a wide range of issues, including the sheepmeat sector.