§ 8. Mr. Alasdair Mackenzieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he proposes to take to place the hill sheep farming industry in Scotland in a position to plan the long-term expansion of the industry.
§ Mr. BuchanThe recent Review determinations included various measures of further assistance to the hill sheep industry and these, together with the Agriculture Bill provisions, particularly the proposed Hill Land Improvement Scheme, are designed to enable hill sheep farmers to play their part in achieving the programme of selective expansion for agriculture.
§ Mr. MackenzieI thank the hon. Gentleman for that Answer. Is he aware of the contrary views expressed by pro-Common Market M.P.s and the N.F.U. of Scotland on this very vital question? Will he assure the House that he will keep in close consultation with the N.F.U. over matters affecting hill and upland farm- 1476 ing during negotiations to join the Common Market?
§ Mr. BuchanI am aware of the concern which has been expressed by the National Farmers' Union of Scotland. I shall certainly keep in touch and listen to its views on this problem.