Mr. RobertsonTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what discussions he has had with farmers about the likely cost to them of the Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control Measure; what representations he has made to the EU about the potential impact on British farmers of this measure; and if he will make a statement. [95714]
§ Mr. Morley[holding answer 26 October 1999]: The National Pig Association raised this issue with the Minister when he and I met them on 5 October; we have also received representations from farming organisations in the context of the Review of Regulatory Burdens on Agriculture announced on 9 September. The Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control Directive was adopted by the Environment Council in 1996. Its implementation is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister, who is also responsible for approving charges set by the Environment Agency to meet its costs in enforcing the relevant regulations. My officials are in contact with him about these charges which will be consistent with the Government's better regulation principles and take full account of the circumstances of industries which have not previously been subject to Integrated Pollution Control regulations.