asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views on the draft EC Commission proposal for a Council Directive on the organic production of foodstuffs and the marketing of organically produced foodstuffs; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Organic Food.
52.
The EC Commission's draft proposal provides for the establishment of a system of controls on the production and marketing of organic food. Examination in Brussels of the draft measure is still at a very early stage and a number of aspects require further clarification and elaboration.
The proposal has merit in that it would facilitate trade in organic produce within the Community. It is important, however, that the introduction of such a measure should not result in discrimination against conventional agricultural products.