§ Mr. Gwynfor Evansasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will take steps to ensure that Welsh-speaking persons are employed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in the areas of Wales where the Welsh language is a common means of communication.
190W
§ Mr. George Thomas:It is the policy of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to fill posts in the Welsh-speaking areas of Wales with Welsh-speaking officers. At least 50 per cent, of all outdoor advisory and field staff in Wales are Welsh-speaking, and the proportion is higher in those areas where Welsh is the first language. For example, in Anglesey, Caernarvon and Merioneth 77 per cent, of advisers and 95 per cent, of the field staff speak Welsh.