Written question asked by Lord Coaker (Labour) on Wednesday, 1 May 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 2 May 2002. It was answered by Baroness Beckett (Labour) on Thursday, 2 May 2002 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dept for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if it is the policy of her Department to claim the outstanding agrimoney compensation from the European Commission; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: Vernon Coaker: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if it is the policy of her Department to claim the outstanding agrimony compensation from the European Commission; and if she will make a statement. [54528] Margaret Beckett: We have considered the case for payment of optional agrimonetary compensation to the livestock sector. While we acknowledge the difficulties that the sector is facing and are working with them on the recommendations of the Policy Commission on Food and Farming, we have decided not to make a claim on these funds given the many competing demands on the Exchequer at present.

Secondary information