Explanatory note

This Order provides for the carrying into effect for the year 1998–99 of the programme, as set out in the Schedule, of research and education in matters affecting the growing of home-grown beet.

It also provides for the assessment of contributions towards the expenditure on this programme and for their collection from the processors and growers of sugar beet in England and Wales. The rates of contributions at 12.0p per adjusted beet tonne are an increase by 1.0p from the contributions in the Sugar Beet (Research and Education) Order 1997 (S.I. 1997/484).

“Adjusted beet tonne” is defined by reference to the interprofessional agreement of 3rd October 1983, as re-issued (with amendments) in June 1995, made between British Sugar p.l.c. and the National Farmers' Union. A copy of the re-issued agreement may be inspected during usual office hours at the offices of British Sugar p.l.c., Oundle Road, Peterborough PE2 9QU, the National Farmers' Union, 164 Shaftesbury Avenue, London WC2H 8HL or the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Main Library, Whitehall Place, London SW1A 2HH.

A Regulatory Appraisal has been prepared and a copy has been placed in the libraries of both Houses of Parliament. Copies of the Regulatory Appraisal can be obtained from the Sugar, Tobacco, Oilseeds and Proteins Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Whitehall Place (East Block), Whitehall, London SW1A 2HH.