§ Mrs. LaitTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what progress is being made in abolishing the tobacco subsidy to EU growers. [29051]
§ Mr. RookerThe Commission is expected to introduce its proposals for reform of the tobacco regime at the Agriculture Council on 16/17 February. The Government will continue to press for disengagement from support. With producer Member States in a majority, abolition of the subsidy is unlikely.