asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the depressed pigmeat prices and the difficulties of producers, he will consider (a) introducing a feed subsidy; and (b) exercising greater veterinary control over Dutch pigmeat imports in view of the level of disease there; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - The Pigmeat Industry.
183.
While the pigmeat sector has been experiencing particular difficulties this year the situation has recently shown an improvement. In July, I introduced a number of measures designed to alleviate the difficulties. These included a reduction in the veterinary inspection fee and the extension to pig producers of the scope of the exchange rate guarantee scheme, the provisions of which I have recently further extended. In addition, a number of increases have been granted in the level of export refunds payable on pigmeat products. These measures, combined with an upturn in the market for pigmeat products, have gone some way towards helping to lift producers prices since August.
For lasting improvements, however, it will be necessary for the industry to tackle its long-standing structural problems. namely the need to rationalise slaughtering capacity and to modernise processing plants. Allied to this is the need for aggressive market development to withstand growing competition on the home and export markets.
On the question of a feed subsidy for pig producers, intervention stocks of cereals can only be released at current intervention prices which are at present higher than market prices. To do otherwise would be in contravention of EC rules.
Dutch pigmeat products are imported only under licence and when accompanied by the necessary veterinary health certificate; imports of fresh pigmeat and of live pigs are prohibited.