§ Sir Dennis WaltersTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether the Importation of Bees Order 1980 can be retained after the completion of the single market in 1992; and what discussions are taking place within the Community on the future of the order.
§ Mr. CurryThe Commission has proposed that after 1992 national measures on animal health, including bee health, should be replaced by EC controls. The proposals for bees would not, as drafted at present, permit a total ban on imports to the United Kingdom. Discussions are at an early stage, and we shall continue to press for the highest level of safeguard.