asked the Minister for Agriculture the present position concerning the exportation to France of mountain lambs; and if he is aware of the potential benefit to mountain lamb producers of such exports.
Written Answers. - Lamb Exports.
254.
Following consultations with representatives of the sheep producers and meat exporters it was decided that it was in the best interests of the sheep industry that the lamb trade with France should be developed on the basis of a high quality carcase of good conformation and within a specified weight range. This is the type of carcase lamb that we have traditionally exported to the French market and that realises the best price there.
A proportion of mountain lamb can meet the quality criteria laid down and with improved feeding, which will now become economic in view of the attractive price for top quality lamb; this proportion is likely to increase.