§ Mr. GillTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the suckler cow premium for the current year will be paid.
§ Mr. CurryPayments of suckler cow premium cannot be made until a claim has been received and checked, and the rate of premium has been determined. This year, the rate of premium in the less favoured areas was increased to the maximum possible. The necessary implementation arrangements were announced on 12 November. Payments have now begun and will be completed as quickly as possible.