asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is satisfied that the manner in which French applies are being advertised for sale and sold in this country is strictly in compliance with EEC regulations.

I am not aware that the manner of advertising or sale of French apples is in breach of EEC regulations. If the Deputy has specific information to that effect I will be glad to have it investigated.

Is the Minister aware that Irish growers believe that advertisements placed on television and in the media in general are subsidised, if not directly paid for, by the French Government? Have any complaints been made to the EEC Commission to that effect and if so have there been any positive results?

There were allegations made along the lines suggested by the Deputy in a study carried out in the United Kingdom and as a result of that report the Commission investigated the matter. The Commission were asked in the European Parliament to take action on foot of that report. The Commission investigated the matter and found that the French aid was not incompatible with the competition rules of the Treaty.

Is the Minister happy about this question of advertising?

The Commission are the body who arbitrate in these matters. They have found that what was done in the way of promotion in France by the French export promotion body as regards publicity is not incompatible with the EEC rules.