§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has made to the Council of Ministers for increases in payments under(a) the beef special premium scheme and (b) the suckler cow premium; and if he will make a statement. [30140]
§ Mr. BaldryThe 29 to 30 April Agriculture Council asked the Commission to suggest measures at this week's Agriculture Council to assist beef producers affected by recent market turbulence and seek guidance on how and where the additional support should be targeted. This may include proposals to supplement the 1995 suckler cow and beef special premiums. I am determined to explore all possible ways of assisting producers and will be pressing for the implementation of such measures as soon as possible.