The Minister is aware of the UK variable premium. In his EEC negotiations he asked the EEC to get rid of that. Would he not request that the EEC introduce that variable premium in this country and that would solve our problems in the meat plants?

That is a suggestion that was made from time to time by interests in the trade but it would cost the Exchequer an enormous amount of money. It has never been accurately calculated but the estimates are considerable. We do not believe that the EEC would agree to such a proposal. We have consistently objected to the operation of this premium where exports of beef to other countries are concerned. Our objections still exist and talks will take place between officials of my Department and the British Ministry of Agriculture on 24 June. I will be anxiously awaiting the outcome of these talks because there will be a need to take further action if we cannot have it resolved in bilateral discussions.