HC Deb 19 June 1996 vol 279 c500W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what further measures he proposes to assist beef farmers affected by BSE outbreaks. [32891]

Mr. Jonathan Evans

We have introduced a number of measures designed to help beef farmers, including prompt payment of beef special and suckler cow premiums and a compensation scheme related to market prices for beef cattle over 30 months of age which must be removed from the food chain. The Council of Ministers is considering a proposal to top up beef special and suckler cow premiums and to provide additional support to beef farmers who have been most directly affected by the crisis.