HC Deb 26 January 1966 vol 723 cc194-5
17. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will institute an official study of the financial implication to the Scottish agricultural industry of implementing the Brambell Report.

Mr. Ross

The Brambell Report affects both sides of the Border and none of its recommendations has a specifically Scottish application. I am therefore collaborating with my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in studying all aspects of the Report, including the financial implications.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is great concern in Scottish agricultural circles about the implications, particularly the financial implications, of the Report and that many schemes for adopting modern and efficient methods of husbandry are being held up because of the uncertainty?

Mr. Ross

We have invited preliminary comments on the Report and hone to receive them all by 31st January. Therefrom, there will flow deeper studies in relation to the Report and the comments received.

Mr. Grimond

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell us when we may expect the results of this study, particularly as regards the expense that would be incurred in byres if tethering were made illegal as suggested in the Report?

Mr. Ross

It is because of the very nature of the Report, and because of the nature, complexity and importance of the matters consequent therefrom, that it will be some time before we are able to get the full recommendations on the Report itself.

Mr. Stodart

Does the right hon. 'Gentleman realise that many of the methods adopted have been caused by sheer economic pressure and that the N.F.U. has accepted much of what has been said in the Report of a constructive nature but that compensation will be essential if the methods have to be changed?

Mr. Ross

That is one of the relevant considerations of the effects these suggestions would have on the economy of farming.