asked the Minister for Agriculture if and when he has made representations to the European Commission and his European Ministerial colleagues to ensure that Article 5.3 of Protocol 18 of the Treaty of Accession is implemented and the exceptional arrangements for imports of New Zealand cheese to the EEC are thereby terminated on 31st December 1977; and, if necessary, if he will use his veto to achieve this end.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC Cheese Imports.
20.
Article 5.3 of Protocol 18 of the Treaty of Accession provides that the exceptional arrangements laid down for the importation of New Zealand cheese into the United Kingdom may not be retained after 31st December, 1977. As no proposal to alter this situation has been put to the EEC Council of Agriculture Ministers, the making of representations to either the EEC Commission or to EEC ministerial colleagues does not arise.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary on behalf of the Minister give a definite assurance that there will be no imports of New Zealand cheese to the European Community after 31st December?
I think that is implied in the reply.
To make the implication clear, will the Parliamentary Secretary give the assurance now?
I am not in a position to give an assurance on behalf of the Minister.
The Parliamentary Secretary is prepared to make a statement conveying an implication?
I will convey the Deputy's comment to the Minister.