1.  The Committee asked for clarification of Mr Morley's remark in response in the Q607 about views expressed during the review on the level of payments made under the Scheme. Mr Morley's statement that "we did get some who suggested it was too low" should be read in the context of the remainder of his answer to Q607. By "too low" he intended to indicate that some respondents agreed the level of aid was insufficient, in the sense that on-going support is not provided after the end of the five-year conversion period. His remarks are therefore consistent with the Ministry's paper, but he has asked me to convey his apologies if he has caused any confusion.

2.  TIMETABLE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF PROCESSING STANDARDS

  (i)  The Committee asked to be provided with a note on the likely timetable for the further development of Community standards relating to processed organic produce.

  (ii)  It is the case that Regulation 2092/91 deals with the production of organic food in considerably greater detail than it does with processed organic produce. It confines itself largely to the ingredients and other substances which can be used in processed organic produce. The current form of Community standards in this area is a concern to many in the organic sector who want to see more comprehensive standards put in place. But it is not one which we expect to be dealt with quickly. As we understand it, the European Commission has no immediate plans to draw up proposals in this area. And in any event, it has a considerable programme of work required of it by the Council of Ministers, arising from the adoption last year of comprehensive standards for organic livestock and livestock products. With limited resources available to it, the Commission will have no choice but to concentrate first on the programme of work placed on it by the Council.

15 November 2000