asked the Minister for Agriculture his views on the recent opinion expressed by ACOT that there was to be a serious reappraisal of calf prices to ensure a future for cattle-to-beef enterprises; and if he will make a statement on his overview of the future for winter fattening for beef.
Written Answers. - Calf Prices.
160.
Calf prices in this country are determined by market forces and are influenced by a number of factors other than beef production trends such as prices in the dairy sector and fodder costs, etc. This year, calves have been available to calf-to-beef enterprises at prices substantially lower than in 1985. As regards winter fattening of cattle, it is my aim to ensure that future changes in the Community beef regime will be such as to improve the seasonal pattern here.