asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what progress is being made in discussions, started with the Milk Marketing Board after the Price Review, on the marketing powers of the Board.

The discussions which have been taking place at the request of the Milk Marketing Boards and the farmers' unions on their proposals for introducing a greater degree of marketing flexibility are continuing.

Can the Minister give any idea when these discussions are likely to be concluded?

I cannot give a specific date, but I hope that it will be as early as possible.