HC Deb 12 April 1988 vol 131 cc53-4W
Mr. Steinberg

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is taking to consult other European Economic Community members both on a formal and informal basis as to the removal of monetary compensatory amounts to help the pig farming industry.

Mr. MacGregor

I raised this issue in the opening discussions on the Commission's price proposals which took place at the meeting of the Agricultural Council on 28/29 March. I stressed the acute problems faced by United Kingdom pig producers and that pigmeat MCAs were producing distortions in competition. I urged an immediate complete devaluation for the green pound in this sector, as part of the price-fixing proposals.

Mr. Steinberg

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what information he has as to the attitude of other European Economic Community countries to monetary compensatory amounts.

Mr. MacGregor

A number of member states are seeking MCA changes.