Flax and Hemp

HC Deb 07 July 2000 vol 353 cc343-4W

Mr. Wigley

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on progress made to date in the negotiations to reform European support arrangements for flax and hemp. [125072]

Ms Quin

There have been lengthy discussions of the flax and hemp reform proposals at official level, but no discussion as yet at ministerial level.

The proposals were due to be discussed at the May Agriculture Council—and then the June Agriculture Council—but on both occasions they were removed from the agenda because the European Parliament had not provided its opinion. The Parliament's opinion was finally delivered on 6 July, clearing the way for discussion at the forthcoming Agriculture Council to be held on 17–18 July.