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Mr Curry : Our officials have received representations from the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations about social measures.

Officials have also participated in discussions held by the European Commission, within the framework of the mid-term review of the CFP and the reform of the structural funds, about possible socio-economic proposals. The Commission's ideas are at a very formative stage and it is too early to say what they will formally propose or to what areas the proposals may apply. The Government will ensure that the needs of United Kingdom fishermen are taken properly into account as discussions continue.

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Brown Hare Syndrome

Mr. Ron Davies : To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many hares in Britain were found to be suffering from European brown hare syndrome in the most recent year for which figures are available.

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Mr. Curry : Although the Department is aware of an apparent decrease in the incidence of European brown hare syndrome in Great Britain, the disease is not notifiable and so comprehensive data are not maintained.

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