HC Deb 07 June 1988 vol 134 cc482-3W
Mr. Bovis

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the performance of the food industry in increasing exports to Community partners.

Mr. Donald Thompson

Exports of food from the United Kingdom to other countries of the EC 12 have more than doubled since 1980 and now comprise over 70 per cent. of the total of our food exports. This is a considerable achievement. However, given that this represents a little over £2,000 million in a total food market in the rest of the EC12 estimated at over £350,000 million, there are clearly further opportunities to be exploited.