§ Mr. SpringTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what has been the effect to date of BSE on the consumption of beef in the EU. [148762]
§ Ms Quin[holding answer 7 February 2001]: Beef consumption in some member states has remained stable while in others, particularly France. Germany, Spain, Italy, Greece, Belgium and Austria, significant short-term falls have been reported. In January these latter countries indicated (on the basis of market intelligence reports rather than official statistics) that beef consumption had fallen by between 20 and 50 per cent. The Commission has estimated that overall EU consumption might fall by 10 per cent. or more in 2001. It is too early to judge whether this forecast will prove to be accurate.
§ Dr. NaysmithTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what internal audit report he has commissioned into the plans to create a new CAP paying agency; and if he will place copies in the Library. [150867]
§ Ms QuinThe MAFF and Intervention Board Internal Audit Units have recently reviewed the programme controls which are being put in place to ensure the successful delivery of the new CAP Payments Agency.
An Action Plan covering the recommendations in the audit report is currently being finalised. I will place copies in the Library when it is available.