HC Deb 18 March 1964 vol 691 cc1369-70
22. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will publish his estimate of the sums paid by farmers in rent to their landlords.

Mr. Stodart

It is estimated that in 1962–63 £4.5 million was paid in rent by farmers in Scotland to their landlords.

Mr. Hughes

Can the Minister give us some more recent statistics? Will he think of publishing in the OFFICIAL REPORT information about the income of landlords similar to that just issued about the incomes of farmers? Is he aware that many Scottish farmers allege that increases in rent are responsible for increases in milk prices, so that landlords are getting money out of the milk prices?

Mr. Stodart

That goes a little beyond the Question. The hon. Member has spoken of the effect of rent on milk prices, but although rents have increased, they still form only a very small proportion of total farming costs, namely, only 5 per cent.

Mr. Prior

Would not my hon. Friend agree that for every farm which comes up for renting there are at least 100 applicants?