Written question asked by Lord Browne of Ladyton (Labour) on Tuesday, 9 May 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 17 May 2000. It was answered by Baroness Quin (Labour) on Wednesday, 17 May 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food

Question: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, if he will make a statement about the outcome of his negotiations at the March Council Meeting of EU Agriculture Ministers in respect of export refunds for the UK spirit industry.

Answer: Mr. Browne: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the outcome of his negotiations at the March Council Meeting of EU Agriculture Ministers in respect of export refunds for the UK spirit industry. [121971] Ms Quin: The EU Agriculture Council on 20 March agreed on conclusions to guide the Commission in its strategy for accommodating budgetary and WTO pressures in the fixing of export refunds for processed products. My right hon. Friend the Minister emphasised to the Council the importance of export refunds to the cereals-based spirit drinks industry, notably Scotch whisky. He urged the Commission to recognise this concern in its implementation of export refund reductions. A statement to this effect was recorded in the minutes of the Council. Discussions with the Commission on the implementation of the strategy are continuing at official level. Our aim is to achieve the best outcome possible for all sectors affected, including the spirits sector.

Secondary information