HC Deb 04 February 1988 vol 126 c736W
Mr. John Evans

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the discussions at the Agriculture Council meeting held in January.

Mr. MacGregor

The Agriculture Council met on 18–19 and 23–24 January. Proposals for stabiliser mechanisms for agricultural commodities and for a set-aside were the main issues discussed. I emphasised the essential need for effective stabilisation of agricultural expenditure if there is to be agreement at the next European Council.