Written question asked by Lord Blencathra (Conservative) on Tuesday, 9 March 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 March 1999. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Thursday, 18 March 1999 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, what are (a) the maximum permitted quota for English wine, (b) the current output of English vineyards and (c) the types of grapes which are allowed to be grown in England. - Including figures and ref to CAP (Wine) Regulations 1996).

Answer: Mr. Maclean: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what are (a) the maximum permitted quota for English wine, (b) the current output of English vineyards and (c) the types of grapes which are allowed to be grown in England. [76159] Mr. Morley: There is no quota for English wine. Because of the UK climate, vineyard output is variable: average production in England and Wales over the period 1993-97 was 16,344 hectolitres, while in 1997 (the last available year) it was 6,523 hectolitres. The vine varieties which may be used for table wine and quality wine in the UK are set out in the CAP (Wine) Regulations 1996, as amended.

Secondary information