HC Deb 14 January 1980 vol 976 cc685-6W
Mr. Heddle

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is satisfied that the Agricultural Holdings Act 1948 is encouraging a sufficient number of farmers to let and manage their land effectively; and whether he proposes to undertake a review of the Agriculture (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 with particular reference to agricultural tenancy succession; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Wiggin

No. The present number of farms for letting is undesirably low. I regret that the joint CLA/NFU talks on agricultural holdings legislation have broken down. My right hon. Friend is still hopeful that agreement will be reached within the industry.