HC Deb 15 December 1942 vol 385 c1760
41. Mr. Snadden

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the scale of assistance to be granted to breeders of hill-sheep in respect of the year 1942?

Mr. Johnston

The Government have carefully considered the question of assistance to hill-sheep farmers in the United Kingdom for the present year. Taking all the circumstances into account, they have decided to make a payment of 8s. per breeding ewe. The conditions of payment to Scottish farmers will be broadly the same as those operating last year. Payment will be based on the number of breeding ewes in the flock at 4th December, 1942, but a farmer may appeal in special circumstances for payment to be made on the number of such ewes as at 4th December, 1940.

Mr. Snadden

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether there will be a ceiling?

Mr. Johnston

Yes, Sir. The fixed price is 8s. per breeding ewe.

Sir Waldron Smithers

In view of the fact that the right hon. Gentleman has answered on behalf of the Government, can he say whether this will apply to Exmoor sheep as well?

Mr. Johnston

Yes, Sir. I have answered on behalf of the Government. It will apply to all British hill-sheep.