§ 52. Mr. MacArthurasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what estimate he has made of the capital resources available to Scottish farmers in 1970–71.
§ Dr. Dickson MabonNo precise estimate can be made but the recent Annual Review settlement is designed to augment the resources available.
§ Mr. MacArthurIs the Minister aware that capital should come very largely from farmers' income? Is he aware that incomes are already low and are being constantly and rapidly eroded by rising costs?
§ Dr. MabonThe hon. Gentleman is as expert in agriculture as I am—[Laughter] Normally he is not the spokesman on agriculture, and neither am I. I accept the first part of his statement as very true. As to the second part, I will consult my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. MaclennanWhilst I welcome the substantial increases in capital grants to both crofters and farmers in the recent Price Review, will my hon. Friend keep a close watch on the rate of take-up of the increased grants with a view to studying whether the necessary injections of capital are being made for the modernisation of Scottish farming?