§ Mr. Home RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what action has been taken, following the meeting between the Minister of State responsible for Agriculture and the hon. Members for East Lothian, for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley (Mr. Foulkes), for Cunninghame, North (Mr. Wilson) for Western Isles (Mr. Macdonald) on 11 November 1987, to improve the supply of milk to cheese manufacturers in Scotland; and if he will make a further statement on the situation in that industry with particular reference to its ability to supply both existing and potential markets.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythWhile some commercial elements are still to be resolved, discussions between the Scottish Milk Marketing Board and its counterparts south of the border to secure a supply of milk for manufacturers in Scotland are now at an advanced stage. All recognised cheddar plants in the Scottish board's area are currently producing cheese. Their ability to meet market demand will depend to an extent on the outcome of the inter-board negotiations.