§ Baroness Gould of Potternewtonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What discussions they have had on the future of the calf processing aid scheme. [HL1035]
§ The Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Lord Donoughue)Farmers' organisations have pressed for continuation of the scheme in view of the uncertain situation facing the beef market. When my right honourable friend (the Minister) announced on 16 November 1998 a package of aid for the livestock sector, he extended the life of the scheme until 31 March 1999. He undertook then to keep the scheme under review. Following consultation within Government he has now concluded that, in view of market circumstances, we should further extend the scheme to 31 July 1999.
In view of the need to give certainty about the final end-date of the scheme there will be no further extension. It will end on 31 July.