asked the Minister for Agriculture the steps he proposes to take to redress the serious problem caused by the non-payment of variable premium on vac-pac exports over 5 per cent to the British market.
279.
Written Answers. - British Non-Payment of Premium.
278.
asked the Minister for Agriculture the situation in relation to the negotiations with the UK on the refusal of Britain to pay the beef variable premium on any vacuum packed beef over 5 per cent of eligible imports from Ireland; and if it is true that the British rejection of the grading standards of another member state is in breach of Community protocol.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 278 and 279 together. This matter is the subject of ongoing discussions with the UK authorities and the Deputies can be assured that I will take every possible step open to me to ensure that the problem is satisfactorily resolved as quickly as possible.