asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made in introducing mechanical loading of seed potatoes in place of the rope sling, in order to reduce costs incurred in marketing potatoes, particularly bad weather labour charges at the docks.

None, I regret to say. But I am aware that some of the commercial interests involved are looking into mechanical handling systems. I welcome this development because mechanical handling should lead to reduced damage and exposure to weather during loading. The Department of Agriculture has given advice on the suitability of various systems. Where improvements to handling facilities with a port complex are undertaken, grant assistance may be available from the Department of Commerce towards the cost of approved works.