HL Deb 16 November 1966 vol 277 c1259
LORD TWEEDSMUIR

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they would be prepared to consider an emergency Price Review to help Scottish hill farmers.]

THE JOINT PARLIAMENTARY UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR SCOTLAND (LORD HUGHES)

No, my Lords, but my Department is already carrying out, in conjunction with the National Farmers' Union of Scotland, and at its request, a special survey of the out-turn of the 1966 lamb crop in order to provide a full and accurate picture of the overall position.

LORD TWEEDSMUIR

My Lords, I am very much obliged to the noble Lord for his reply. I would ask him one further question. Could he give the House a general assurance that, during these difficult times through which hill farmers in Scotland are now passing, the payments of subsidies and deficiency payments will be expedited?

LORD HUGHES

My Lords, we are subject to certain statutory limitations, but we agree that it is desirable to pay the subsidy as soon as possible.

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