§ Mr. HagueTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is the present level of the suckler cow premium; what is the maximum level permitted under current European Community rules; and when he expects to make an announcement of its future level.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonThe rate of suckler cow premium applicable in the United Kingdom in the 1988 scheme year was £33.40 per head. The maximum rate of paremium payable in 1989 under revised Community rules is £46.18 per head. The Government are currently considering what rate of premium should apply in the United Kingdom and will make an announcement in good time before the start of the 1989 scheme year on 15 June.