asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what new measures he proposes to help the pig industry.

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is satisfied that the recent subsidy to pig producers is having the desired effect.

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what further consideration he has given to the effect on pig production of the subsidy announced by him on 20th January; what action he now proposes; and whether he will make a statement.

I have introduced a temporary subsidy which is providing substantial, immediate support for the pig industry. The increase in sow slaughterings has been checked. I know that the industry still faces difficulties, but I have made clear that I do not regard the subsidy as a solution to what is essentially a Community problem. I am continuing to press for a modification of the system of calculation of monetary compensatory amounts in this sector which will enable our producers and processors to compete on fairer terms with overseas suppliers.

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what were the average returns achieved by producers over the last complete month, February, of weaners, porkers, cutters and heavy hogs.

There are no official records. The average producer returns recorded during January in the Meat and Livestock Commission's Pig Feed Recording Scheme for each category of pig are: