asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will consider extending the closing date for the qualification for the £22 EEC calf subsidy from Monday 20 June 1983 to mid-July; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I have already extended the closing dates of all cattle schemes, including the EEC calf premium scheme to 30 June 1983.

A further extension of closing dates would unduly delay the commencement of inspections which have been brought forward this year at the request of the farming organisations.

May I take it, then, that the closing date for the calf scheme has been extended?

Yes.

What is the new date?

June 30.

I am glad that the Minister has been practical enough to do this instead of having the matter handled in the way it was handled last year.