asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that Australia is seeking greater access for its beef in the EEC market and that the British government supports this policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC Beef Market.
27.
I am aware that the Australian authorities are seeking greater access to Community markets for their major agricultural exports including beef.
Proposals involving significant changes in the trading arrangements for agricultural products between the Community and third countries are, of course, subject to the approval of the Council of Ministers and I can assure the Deputy that if and when such proposals come before the Council it will be my aim to ensure that the interests of Community producers are safeguarded.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the approach of Commissioner Gundelach and the British government to the price level in relation to food is that of a low consumer price level and while I would agree with that, it is very important that producers should get the highest price possible and, in those circumstances, would he not agree that greater importation from third countries of such products as frozen beef will be to the detriment of Irish producers? Is he further aware that, in relation to the intervention scheme for beef, if a change is made that change may it be to the detriment of Irish producers?
I am aware that has been the policy of the British Government for a long number of years and I am sure the Council of Ministers is aware of this policy but I think we can rely on these people to keep in mind the interests of producer groups at all times.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary state if his Minister is prepared to use his veto in relation to these matters in certain circumstances?
I think that is a separate question and I am not prepared to answer it.
Will the proposals for the reorganisation of the beef market recently circulated by Commissioner Gundelach have any effect on third countries, such as Australia, beef exports to the European Community?
I have no information on that available to me on the file.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary agree to examine the proposals with special advertence to the possibility that the importation of third country beef might be in some way facilitated?
I will certainly do that.