§ Sir Roger MoateTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations she has received about damage to United Kingdom growers caused by the importation of foreign horticultural produce, with particular reference to lettuces, tomatoes and cucumbers, at prices below the cost of production, packaging and transport; and what powers exist either in the United Kingdom or the European Community to prevent such market distortions whether caused by EC or non-EC member states.
§ Mr. JackThe Department has received representations from the NFU and growers about difficulties in the markets for salad crops. Market management of horticultural crops is a matter for the Commission. However, under the transitional terms provided for in the treaty of accession, the Commission may take measures in the event of exports from Spain to the rest of the Community disrupting markets. Some horticultural produce, including tomatoes and cucumbers but not lettuces, are currently subject to a reference price system which establishes minimum import prices at certain times of the year for produce from third countries.