§ 14. Mr. RoweWhat representations he has received about the future of the Brogdale Trust; and if he will make a statement. [28758]
§ Mr. MorleyIn recent months, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food officials have had a number of discussions with Brogdale horticultural trust and its representatives about their proposed sale of the Brogdale site. The Ministry's interest is in the national fruit collection at Brogdale, which is located on land that we lease from the trust.
§ Mr. RoweDoes the Minister agree that one of the difficulties facing the trust is MAFF's requirement for a sizeable pay-back if the land is sold? Can he assure the House that that enormously valuable collection will not be put at risk by unreasonable demands by his Department?
§ Mr. MorleyThe national fruit collection is obviously of national importance and consists of more than 4,000 top fruit trees. Our priority is to ensure its existence and the lease arrangements, to which the hon. Gentleman refers, are part of the guarantee.