asked the Minister for Agriculture the action he has taken to curb manioc imports to Europe.

I have strongly supported the demand for renewed action by the EEC Commission to curb imports of manioc into the Community.

Is the Minister aware that these imports are contributing in very large measure to the surplus? What prospects are there of any curbs being introduced?

Ireland has been among the countries pressing for a resumption of action by the Commission to reduce imports. The Commission have already indicated that talks will be held with Thailand on the subject of a voluntary restraint of exports.

When does the Minister expect these talks to commence and, second, to lead to a concrete result?

I do not have that information.

Is the Minister aware that that information is central to my question? That is what I asked about. If he does not have that information, he does not have anything.

The Commission have been unable to start these negotiations because of lack of agreement among member states. Germany and the Netherlands, being major users of this product for animal feeds, are opposed to any increase in existing import duties.

What other countries would be involved in exporting this produce to the EEC other than Thailand?

Thailand is the only country I know of.