12.
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if it is his intention to meet the president of the Food Manufacturers Federation.
I shall be meeting the president of the Food Manufacturers Federation tomorrow and again on 6 February.
When my right hon. Friend meets the president of the Food Manufacturers Federation, will be congratulate the Federation and all its companies on its excellent service and the good value for money that it gives to the British consumer? Is he aware that that vital industry could be inhibited in providing value for money and the necessary service to the housewife if secondary picketing is allowed to continue, bearing in mind that the industry is dependent on containers with a steel content?
I agree that the food manufacturing industry in this country has a good record and one that could help us penetrate overseas markets. I, too, regret any secondary picketing that is damaging food supplies in this country.
Will the right hon. Gentleman seek advice from the president of the Food Manufacturers Federation on the impact of the rise in energy costs announced yesterday on employment prospects for the industry and price levels for the housewife?
I shall discuss a whole range of matters when I meet the president. I believe that the gentleman concerned will be anxious about the general economic situation and a whole range of measures, and that he will not take one matter in isolation.
When my right hon. Friend meets the president, is it his intention to discuss the viability of the starch regime? If not, will he tell the House what is his policy towards the regime?
It is not my intention to discuss that matter with the president. I discussed the matter with the starch manufacturers yesterday and we agreed upon the attitude that we shall take as far as Community negotiations are concerned.