§ Mr. Terry Walkerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether his Department has yet finalised plans for the proposed new Experimental Horticulture Station at Ardleigh in Essex.
§ Mr. PeartDiscussions took place with the Land Settlement Association with a view to converting Lawford Farm at Ardleigh into an experimental horticulture station. However, this project has been postponed as one of the economy measures being undertaken at the present time.
§ Mr. Terry Walkerasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will make a statement about the future of Cleppa Park Experimental Horticulture Station.
Mr. PearlAs part of the Government's decisions this week regarding manpower economies, my Ministry, in common with other Government Departments,1102W has been required to make savings. The necessary savings in my Department will include the closure of Cleppa Park Experimental Horticulture Station, and also Ellbridge Horticulture Sub-Station.
The development needs of the industry in Wales and the South West will be met by the remaining horticulture stations of my Agricultural Development and Advisory Service; and selected ongoing projects if need be can be transferred to appropriate stations elsewhere. Growers' advisory needs will continue to be met by ADAS horticulture officers stationed in Wales and in the South West of the country.