HL Deb 02 February 1993 vol 542 cc11-2WA
Lord Gallacher

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the meaning of carousel trade within the context of the common agricultural policy of the European Communities.

The Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Earl Howe)

Carousel trade is the name given to artificial movements of agricultural products from one member state of the Community to another, solely to attract subsidies paid under the common agricultural policy. While such trade is not necessarily illegal under Community legislation, it is a misuse of Community funds.