HC Deb 22 January 1969 vol 776 cc483-4
41. Mr. Deedes

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he accepts the recommendation of the National Economic Development Council in respect of lowland sheep; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

I agree with the E.D.C. assessment that any significant expansion of lowland sheep production now could only be at the expense of other livestock and crops, and the general policy has been to encourage a shift to the hills and uplands. This does not mean there is no place for lowland sheep or that their production is being deliberately discouraged. They remain valuable to the husbandry of many lowland farms particularly as a break crop for those growing cereals.

Mr. Deedes

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what representations he has had from breed societies about the N.E.D.C. Report?

Mr. Hughes

We are in constant touch with breed societies and no such requests have come from them. They are satisfied with our present policy.

Mr. Godber

Has the right hon. Gentleman been in touch with the Grassland Institute at Hurley in connection with its work on sheep? When he is considering the views of the Institute will not he reconsider the possibility of expanding lowland sheep production?

Mr. Hughes

I shall be glad to consider that.

Back to