HC Deb 19 January 1989 vol 145 c307W
14. Mr. Kirkwood

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has made to the European Economic Community regarding devaluation of the green pound as part of the 1989 price proposals.

Mr. MacGregor

Following United Kingdom pressure during the 1988 price fixing, the Council and the Commission agreed that the completion of the internal market required the progressive dismantlement of all MCAs, and monetary gaps. The Commission is committed to making proposals for further steps, and I expect to see the 1989–90 price proposals shortly.

46. Mr. Marland

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has assessed the likely impact of the green pound rate changes which come into effect on 18 January on farm incomes.

Mr. MacGregor

The green pound devaluations agreed at the 1988 price fixing came into effect on 1 January this year. Taken on their own, they would increase aggregate farm income (the value of United Kingdom agricultural output) by some £120 million in a full year.