§ Mr. YeoTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the decision by the French Government to compensate apple growers for the effect of consumer boycotts in Britain. [122993]
§ Mr. Nick Brown[holding answer 22 May 2000]: I am aware that the French Government are providing aid for the horticulture sector but their Press Releases indicate that it is for restructuring, not compensation for the effects of any consumer boycott of French apples. My officials 556W are seeking further information. There are strict rules governing the granting of state aids by member states. It is the responsibility of the European Commission to assess whether state aids comply with these rules. However if there is evidence that the French are paying an illegal state aid we will raise this with the Commission.