HC Deb 27 May 1988 vol 134 cc384-5W
Mr. Thurnham

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about current proposals to reform the common agricultural policy.

Mr. MacGregor

Negotiations are continuing on the Commission's proposals for farm prices and related measures in 1988–89. The Government are seeking to ensure that the approach adopted on CAP reform at the recent European Council is carried forward in the price-fixing. We favour adjustments to support arrangements which will bring supply and demand into better balance and restore intervention to its original role as a safety net rather than an alternative market outlet.