§ Mr. Charles KennedyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what further representations to the European Commission he has made following his meeting with industry representatives, in respect of the entry of Norwegian salmon into the Union; what response he has received; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Sir Hector MonroMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland wrote to the European Commission on 16 November expressing concern about the current market situation, welcoming discussions which were taking place between the Commission and the Norwegian Government, and asking the Commission to take appropriate action.
The Commission has now introduced minimum import prices with effect from 20 November 1993 until the end of January 1994. This will provide a temporary floor to the market while the longer-term problems facing the industry are addressed.
The Commission has also invited the industry to update the information they have submitted in support of allegations of dumping by Norwegian exporters. I would encourage the industry to provide this information as soon as possible so that the Commission is in a position to proceed with an investigation.
§ Mr. MorleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) when he expects to announce what action the United Kingdom Government are taking in response to complaints from Scottish salmon farmers about the dumping of Norwegian salmon on United Kingdom and EC markets;
(2) what action he is taking to safeguard United Kingdom salmon producers from the effects of Norwegian salmon being dumped on United Kingdom and EC markets.
§ Sir Hector MonroI have been asked to reply.
Allegations of dumping of farmed salmon on the European market by Norwegian importers are a matter for the European salmon farming industry to take up with the European Commission. The Scottish industry made such allegations in 1991 and the Commission has recently asked the industry to update the information provided on that occasion. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland has encouraged the industry to provide this information to the Commission as soon as possible so that the Commission is in a position to proceed with an investigation.