HC Deb 13 May 1970 vol 801 cc1230-1
26. Mr. Monro

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he now anticipates an increase in the hill ewe flock in 1970.

Mr. Mackie

It is too early to make a reliable forecast of hill ewe numbers for 1970. However, I am confident that the additional measures announced at the Annual Review provide the means and encouragement for greater productivity and growth in the hill sheep industry.

Mr. Monro

Does not the hon. Gentleman agree that the price of wool has a significant effect on the increase or decrease of the hill ewe flock? Does he also agree that in the price review the Minister gave different increases in income for dairy farmers and so on, together with different acreage calculations? What will be the decrease in income for hill sheep farms with two, four and six hirsels in the coming year?

Mr. Mackie

My right hon. Friend answered the point about wool in a previous Question. I will try to give the hon. Gentleman the estimate he asks for.

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