The Minister's reply indicated the success of the Department's sheep development programme. Would the Minister not agree that apart from dairying the only other viable enterprise for small farmers is sheep production? Given the increasing numbers of sheep, which generally results in the depressing of prices in the market, can the Minister tell us if there are any steps his Department can take to protect the sheep industry with a view to protecting the incomes of small farmers? I ask this question because of the continuing importation of New Zealand lamb into the Community.

The Deputy will be aware from the figures I have given that the sheep industry is in a vigorous and vibrant state, which is very different from the position of a few years ago. Secondly, the level of income for sheep farmers is much better than it has ever been. Let me also assure the Deputy that I will continue to take whatever action I can in respect of ewe premium and headage payments in disadvantaged areas and elsewhere. In relation to the importation of New Zealand lamb, I can assure the Deputy that I will continue to adopt a strong and vigorous position, with some of my colleagues on the Council of Ministers, in resisting the applications which have been made. We have been successful so far, but in the final analysis these are matters for international negotiation. I am confident that the Deputy's concerns will be fully met.