§ Lord Juddasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is their policy towards the development of the livestock sector of agriculture in West Africa in view of the effect of EC subsidies for beef surpluses sent there from Europe.
The Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Earl Howe)We are aware of the concern about the effect of Community beef exports on the development of the livestock sector of agriculture in West Africa. There was a discussion of this matter at the Council of Agriculture Ministers in Brussels earlier this week, and my right honourable friend the Minister reflected this concern. The Agriculture Directorate General of the European Commission is at present carrying out an assessment and we will seek an early indication of its findings.