asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations have been made to the EEC Commissioners concerning the plan to institute a common policy for early potatoes, so far as Scotland is concerned, and by whom; and if he will make a statement on the implications for Scotland of such a policy.

The Commission's proposals for a reference price system and common quality standards for new potatoes were discussed by the Council of Ministers at short notice at their meeting on 28th-29th April. The effects of such arrangements would depend on their detailed implementation in relation to the market situation. The United Kingdom, together with a number of other member States, raised objections to the Commission's proposals. These objections took full account of Scottish interests as of those of the United Kingdom as a whole.