HC Deb 27 October 1997 vol 299 cc704-5W
Barbara Follett

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what has been the total percentage reduction agreed since August 1996 by the European Commission in the level of beef export refunds to South Africa. [12332]

Mr. Rooker

The level of export refund EU beef exports received is dependant not only on the destination, but also the type of cut. Since August 1996, the level of export refunds on beef exports to South Africa has fallen by between 35 per cent. and 43 per cent.

Barbara Follett

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment his Department has made of the report on the effects of EU beef export subsidies on the Southern African livestock economy commissioned by the South African Government from Natal university. [12333]

Mr. Rooker

We are aware of the report and have noted its contents. As mentioned in my reply to my hon. Friend's previous question, there has already been a large reduction in the level of refunds paid on beef exports to South Africa. We believe however that it is still too early to assess the full impact of these reductions.

Barbara Follett

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when will the EU Council of Ministers next debate beef export subsidies to South Africa; and if he will make a statement. [12334]

Mr. Rooker

We know of no current plans to discuss beef export refunds to South Africa in the Agriculture Council.