HC Deb 01 December 1988 vol 142 cc319-20W
21. Mr. Yeo

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the estimated cost to Britain of the common agricultural policy in 1989–90.

Mr. MacGregor

The latest forecast of public expenditure in the United Kingdom under the common agricultural policy in 1989–90 is £1,467 million. This covers all expenditure under Community market support and structural aid schemes for agriculture and fisheries but excludes related expenditure such as disease prevention, advice, research and development, land drainage and administration.

The United Kingdom Government also support spending under the common agricultural policy elsewhere in the Community through our net contribution to the European Community budget, which in 1989–90 is estimated at £1,970 million. Over that period it is expected that more than 60 per cent. of the European Community budget will be spent on the common agricultural policy.

33. Mr. Galbraith

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he next plans to meet other European Community Agriculture Ministers to discuss the common agricultural policy; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. MacGregor

I expect to meet other Agriculture Ministers in the Council of Ministers in the Council starting on 12 December.

37. Mr. Teddy Taylor

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what initiatives he plans to take to implement the proposals for the reform of the common agricultural policy as outlined in the Gracious Speech; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. MacGregor

I am consistently endeavouring to ensure that the reforms established by the European Council in February and the price negotiations in July are carried out and to maintain the impetus at all appropriate times.

53. Mr. Kirkhope

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will indicate the positive results achieved by reforms of the common agricultural policy.

Mr. MacGregor

European Community stocks of most commodities have fallen significantly. Butter stocks are down 80 per cent. over the last year and skimmed milk powder stocks virtually eliminated. Stabilisers are cutting support levels, where production has exceeded the agreed threshold for cereals, oilseeds, olive oil, protein crops, cotton and sheep. The common agricultural policy is being effectively managed, within the guidelines, under the new budgetary discipline rules.