§ Mr. Geraint Howellsasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he is satisfied with the state of the dairy industry in Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MorrisThe latest information indicates that dairy cow numbers in Wales have shown a slight increase in the past year but that the number of dairy heifers in calf is down. This suggests that there could be some decrease in the size of the dairy herd during the coming year. However, average milk yields per cow have increased since last year, and total milk production in the 12 months ending in September is running at a significantly higher level than in the previous 12 months.