HC Deb 20 June 1984 vol 62 cc284-5
11. Mr. Bruce

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will seek to secure European Economic Community funding for agricultural or integrated development programmes for the Highlands and Islands and other rural areas of Scotland.

Mr. John MacKay

It is for the European Commission to come forward with proposals for any such development programmes. My right hon. Friend has undertaken that, should the Commission do so, its proposals would be given careful consideration.

Mr. Bruce

But did not the discouragement shown by the Government towards the previous proposals lead to the Commission not proceeding with them? Are not the Government misleading us if they expect us to accept their view? Will the Minister acknowledge the problems of the rural areas of Scotland—and not only in the Highlands and Islands—and accept that the restructuring of the CAP will require direct assistance? The Government must ensure that hill farmers obtain a living that can underpin the rural economies throughout Scotland.

Mr. MacKay

The hon. Gentleman has asked a number of questions. We have consistently promised to consider any Commission proposals. It is the clear duty of the Commission to propose and the Council of Ministers to dispose. We have always made that position clear.

I remind the hon. Gentleman about the recent package of help for the farming community in Scotland. I appreciate the problem for the dairy farmers, but it is caused by the milk surpluses. The sheepmeat regime continues, the suckling cow premium has doubled, there has been an increase in wool prices and the hill market stock compensatory allowance in the Highlands and Islands will have a supplement added to it in the autumn review. All those are positive Government actions to help the hill and upland areas of Scotland.