asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his policy regarding the EC school milk scheme; the savings of the Exchequer in 1988 from the abolition of the Exchequer subsidy; the loss of EC funding consequent on the abolition; the drop in consumption expected as a consequence of such a decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - School Milk Scheme.
90.
I fully support the continuation of the school milk scheme. The decision to remove the Exchequer contribution of 8p per gallon to the subsidy was taken as part of the general programme of public expenditure reductions and will result in an annual saving of approximately £160,000. The EC contribution of 136p per gallon will continue to be paid. Given the marginal nature of the subsidy reduction, it is not expected that the withdrawal of the Exchequer contribution will lead to a drop in consumption under the scheme.