§ 12. Mr. Biffenasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will include specific reference to the ownership and size of farms and farm holdings in the long-term discussions he proposes to have on agriculture with representatives of the industry.
§ Mr. BiffenIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the Ministry of Agriculture is not the only cross that the farming community has to bear? Does he realise that the community looks with considerable apprehension at the Chancellor of the Exchequer's plan to introduce a wealth tax of the kind that is advocated by his hon Friends below the Gangway? Does he realise that such a tax spells death for the family farmer? Will he give an undertaking that it is the intention that this tax shall be administered only in a way which will enable the continuance of the family farmer?
§ Mr. MoyleThe wealth tax will be outlined in a Green Paper, which will be subject to discussion. We are well aware of the concern expressed by many farmers. There is no evidence to date that capital taxation has adversely affected the size of family farms.
§ Mr. William HamiltonIs my hon. Friend aware that I have gained the impression in the course of Question Time that no farmer will be liable to this kind of tax?
§ Mr. NottI feel that I should declare an indirect interest in a small unprofitable farm and a more direct interest in Cornish broccoli, early potatoes, beef, mutton and cheese. Is the hon. Gentleman aware that output per acre of small farms in this country is far greater than that of large farms? Is he aware that small farmers cannot survive unless there is a reasonable price level for their products?