§ Mr. David PorterTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how subsidised foodstuffs from EC surplus stocks are now distributed round the United Kingdom; what are the criteria used; how frequently such distributions are made; and what are his plans for the future of these distributions.
§ Mr. CurryThe distribution of surplus butter and beef relies on the voluntary participation of charitable and other non-profit-making organisations. The method and timing of distributions are matters for these organisations themselves to decide according to local needs and their own resources. In order to meet the requirements of European legislation, only the homeless and destitute, people in receipt of income support or family credit and people living in welfare hostels are eligible to receive produce under the United Kingdom scheme.
We will shortly announce the future arrangements for distribution.