Written question asked by Lord Blencathra (Conservative) on Tuesday, 23 February 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 2 March 1999. It was answered by Elliot Morley (Labour) on Tuesday, 2 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, if he will make a statement on the current situation of the English winemaking industry.

Answer: Mr. Maclean: To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement on the current situation of the English winemaking industry. [73503] Mr. Morley: In recent years the English and Welsh wine industry has been remarkably successful and innovatory having made particular progress with the development and production of sparkling wine. English and Welsh wine is very much on the edge of the major wine producing area of Europe and because of this there are inevitable difficulties of climate, relatively low yields and other uncertainties. This has led to the cessation of production of some marginal vineyards in recent years. However, I am sure the industry can look to the future with confidence. My colleagues and I take every opportunity to promote its products.

Secondary information