§ 8. Mr. Brewisasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will seek powers to extend the grants under the Farm Improvement Scheme to fish farmers.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Home Affairs and Agriculture, Scottish Office (Mr. Alick Buchanan-Smith)I do not consider that agricultural grants schemes are appropriate for this purpose, but I shall keep under review the needs of fish farming.
§ Mr. BrewisIn view of the disappointing reply, will my hon. Friend say whether discretionary payments for such a purpose can be made under any other legislation, such as the Industry Act?
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithYes. I can reassure my hon. Friend on that point because fish farming can be considered for selective assistance under Part II of the Industry Act.
§ Mr. StrangIs the Minister aware that there is a great deal of concern in Scotland about the suggestion that head-age payments will be replaced by grants related to the improvement of marginal or hill farms? Will he confirm that such plans do not exist?
§ Mr. Buchanan-SmithI am not aware of fish farming being eligible at the moment for headage payments.