§ 7.33 p.m.
§ Lord HUGHESMy Lords, I beg to move that the Winter Keep (Scotland) Scheme 1975, the draft of which was laid before your Lordships' House on 9th April 1975, be approved. I do not think I need take up much time in commending the Scheme to your Lordships. The Scheme, which applies only to Scotland, will enable us to continue for the next five years the annual grants to hill and upland farmers for growing certain crops for the winter feeding of their livestock. It replaces, and in all material respects is the same as, the Winter Keep (Scotland) Scheme 1969, as varied by the Winter Keep (Scotland) Variation Scheme 1972, which expired on 31st December last. Therefore I suggest it has all the characteristics of an all-Party document. My Lords, I beg to move.
§ Moved, That the Draft Winter Keep (Scotland) Scheme 1975, laid before the House on 9th April, be approved.—(Lord Hughes.)
Lord CAMPBELL of CROYMy Lords, I shall take only a minute or two 290 of your Lordships' time. As I remember the introduction of this Scheme some years ago, I should like to observe that I am glad it has proved itself to be a good Scheme. Now that the European Communities Council of Ministers has approved the less favoured areas Directive, the hills and uplands in Britain should play an increasing part in home food production. I hope that this Scheme will play its part in the Scottish side of that activity.
The Scheme is to last for five years. I presume there is procedure for changing the rates of grant. With some of the rapid changes of circumstances which we have experienced in farming in recent years, it could be that a change in the grant may be needed quickly for some item. If there is to be a change, am I right to assume that this is by Order? Also, does it need the consent of Parliament?
§ Lord HUGHESYes, My Lords, the noble Lord is correct.
§ On Question, Motion agreed to.