§ 8. Mr. Joplingasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he intends to take to relieve farmers from the results of the excessively wet harvest.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. John Mackie)Our sympathy and admiration is due to everyone concerned for the tremendous efforts that have been made to get in the bad harvest. Weather is, however, one of the risks which the farming industry normally has to carry.
§ Mr. JoplingIs the Joint Parliamentary Secretary aware that some farmers are facing ruin after this harvest? Will he ensure that all problems which arise from it over subsidy payments receive prompt and sympathetic attention? Will he in particular consider paying an advance acreage payment on barley at once?
§ Mr. MackieI appreciate what the hon. Gentleman says. I will look into the point he has made.