§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received concerning the change in sheep retention periods; and what action he is taking as a result; and if he will make a statement. [42178]
§ Mr. BoswellThe Department received numerous representations on the move to a single application and retention period for the sheep annual premium scheme, which had been recommended by EU auditors. Most were concerned that this would reduce marketing options, but the National Sheep Association felt that it might help breeders. We investigated the feasibility of tighter controls to enable the continuation of two retention periods but decided these would be too onerous for producers and too costly to administer.
Accordingly, my right hon. Friend announced on 18 October a single application and retention period which will protect the interests of the majority of sheep farmers.
§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to increase sheep annual premiums to compensate for any losses resulting from the change in the sheep retention period. [42179]
§ Mr. BoswellThe sheep annual premium is fixed by the European Commission, taking into account the difference between the basic Community price for sheepmeat and the average price prevailing on the Community market throughout the year. The final rate of premium for the 1995 scheme will not be determined until 881W February 1996. A first estimate of the rate of premium for 1996 will be made by the Commission in the spring of 1996. It is not open to member states to fix the rate of premium themselves.