asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has satisfied himself regarding current proposals for rationalisation in the dairy industry; if his Department has expressed any views regarding developments in the industry in recent times; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Rationalisation in the Dairy Industry.
59.
Rationalisation of the dairy industry is a matter for the industry itself. However I recognise the need for such rationalisation and thus welcome the debate now taking place on this issue. It is essential that whatever rationalisation plans are agreed, the action necessary to implement them is taken immediately so that the industry is in a position to compete internationally and to fully exploit the opportunities presented by the internal market. I have made a number of public statements to this effect.