HC Deb 12 May 1994 vol 243 c236W
Mr. John D. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland for what reasons the timetable for the proposed reform of milk marketing has been changed; what progress is being made concerning the future of the Northern Ireland milk marketing board; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ancram

The Milk Marketing Board for Northern Ireland has accepted that the vesting date of 1 April 1994, as proposed in its reorganisation scheme, was not realisable. The board may now propose a new vesting date of up to 1 January 1995, but this does not preclude an earlier vesting date provided that their proposals have been approved. Ministers are still examining the proposals in the board's reorganisation scheme. An announcement will be made as soon as possible.