§ Mr. Alex CarlileTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement concerning the potential effect upon vineyards in Wales of European Union proposals concerning the sugar content of grapes.
§ Mr. RedwoodThe European Union has not made any proposals concerning the sugar content of English and 367W Welsh grapes. Reform proposals for the wine regime are expected soon and are likely to propose an increase in the minimum natural alcoholic strength of grapes.
My right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food is fully aware of the concerns of the Welsh industry and will seek to ensure that these are properly reflected in the forthcoming negotiations.