HC Deb 18 July 1972 vol 841 cc377-8
6. Mr. Hicks

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has yet considered the future of the Horticulture Improvement Scheme, particularly in respect of those growers who will require capital to reorientate their patterns of production as a consequence of United Kingdom entry into the European Economic Community; and if he will make a statement.

16. Mr. Hastings

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will make a statement on the future of the Horticulture Improvement Scheme after 1974.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

Under existing legislation the Horticulture Improvement Scheme still has well over 18 months to run, and I am sure that growers will continue to take full advantage of it. The nature of the assistance to be given to the industry in the longer term is under consideration.

Mr. Hicks

Is my hon. Friend aware that anxiety is being created by the uncertainty, particularly for growers who wish to adapt to the new and changing circumstances? Furthermore, will he give some indication of the discussions which are taking place at present be- tween the EEC and the United Kingdom Government about this form of grant aid?

Mr. Stodart

It would be difficult for me to do this without incurring the displeasure of the House by giving too long a reply, but there are no grounds for the rumours which are causing needless alarm in respect of the scheme up to April, 1974. The kind of help and its extent after that time is being considered, and the recent EEC directives on help to be given through FEOGA lay greater emphasis on the improvement of structure than does the present scheme.

Mr. Peart

The hon. Gentleman says that the matter is under consideration. When will he be in a position to make an announcement? This section of the industry, which is very important, is extremely worried about entry into the EEC. It must be admitted, even by ardent Europeans, that inevitably our horticultural industry may be affected.

Mr. Stodart

I am sure the right hon. Gentleman will wish to join me in paying a tribute to the enterprise shown by British horticulture. It is almost certain that we shall come back to the House before the present scheme ends to obtain more money for the scheme to be extended. I deplore any suggestion that we shall not be able to compete once growers have taken advantage of this scheme.

Mr. Blaker

Has my hon. Friend in mind the fact that his right hon. Friends have given some firm undertakings on this matter and that these have been generally understood not to be within the context solely of the Horticulture Improvement Scheme? Will he give an assurance that he is bearing these undertakings in mind in formulating his policy?

Mr. Stodart

Yes.