§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has had from the farming unions, landowners' organisations and the professional bodies in relation to delays in processing of milk quota transactions; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RedwoodI have received representations from the National Farmers Union about delays in processing milk quota transactions.
§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what progress he has made in setting up improvements in computer systems for handling milk quota movements and leasing and transfer applications; what is the average length of time currently taken to process(a) a quota leasing transaction and (b) a permanent quota transfer application; and what consultation he has had with the Intervention Board and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors regarding the delayed processing of quota transactions.
§ Mr. RedwoodThis is a matter for the Intervention Board executive agency.
The current backlog was caused by delays in the transfer of up-to-date information from the milk marketing boards to the Intervention Board. These have 76W now been resolved and I understand that the Intervention Board expects to clear the backlog by the end of October. Thereafter they aim to turn both leasing and transfer confirmations round in two weeks.
My officials have been in regular touch with the Intervention Board and have been present at discussions, which also included representatives of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, on a variety of matters concerning the operation of the milk quota system.
§ Mr. MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consultation he has had with the Intervention Board for Agricultural Produce concerning delays in processing of milk quota transfers.
§ Mr. RedwoodMy officials are in touch regularly with the Intervention Board on all matters relating to its operation of the milk quota system.