§ Mr. MartlewTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he is taking to ensure that traditional British brandy and rum butters can continue to be marketed in the European Union. [73078]
§ Mr. RookerI am pleased to announce that, following discussions with the industry, the European Commission and other Member States, we have managed to secure a derogation that will lower the minimum milkfat content of brandy, rum and sherry butters from 34 per cent. to 20 per cent., thereby ensuring that these traditional alcoholic butters can continue to be made using the traditional recipes enjoyed by the UK consumers for many years.