Press Release: European Commission to extend ‘special purchase scheme’ for beef

A proposal to prolong the special market support measures in the beef sector known as the 'special purchase scheme' - was adopted by the European Commission on 28 December 2001. The scheme, introduced as part of the Commission's “7-point plan” in mid-April, is one of the measures designed to ease the short-term pressures on the beef and veal market caused by the BSE crisis. Initially intended to run until the end of 2001, this decision foresees its continuation until 31 March 2002.