§ Mr. WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what strategy he proposes to assist Scottish beef exporters re-gain market share once the ban on United Kingdom beef exports is lifted; and what discussions he has had with(a) the SNFU, (b) Scottish Enterprise and (c) the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food regarding such initiatives. [59328]
§ Mr. MacdonaldRecognising the importance of beef production to Scotland, we are working with the key sectors of the industry to help them prepare for re-entry to the export market as soon as exports can resume. This involves preparations for the operation of the Date-Based Export Scheme and investigation of potential markets for the export of beef and beef products. Scottish Office officials have been maintaining close contact with the organisations mentioned by the hon. Member and other bodies.
§ Mr. WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to provide financial assistance to Scottish beef exporters for the promotion of Scottish beef in Europe following the lifting of the ban on United Kingdom beef exports. [59327]
§ Mr. MacdonaldOur top priority is the lifting of the beef export ban. The key to regaining European markets will be the supply of a premium product supported by rigorous quality assurance schemes at every stage of the production and marketing chain. The Government are already assisting the industry to ensure this is in place. Through their Scotch Beef Marketing and Quality Assurance Initiative, more than £4 million has been made available to the industry towards the establishment of these Schemes and development of the brand "Specially Selected Scotch Beef".
The Government have also assisted the industry in commissioning a study to assess the opportunities for profitable sales of Scotch beef once the export ban is lifted.