§ Mr. Hastingsasked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received about special financial problems affecting certain Land Settlement Association growers; and what action he proposes to take.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerThe executive committee of the Land Settlement Association has informed me of its concern about allegations that have been made as to the cause of financial problems which have arisen for certain growers at four LSA estates, Chawston, Fen Drayton, Fulney and Newbourn. I have accordingly instructed that an urgent examination of the situation should be carried out by officers of my agricultural development and advisory service in order to establish the full facts. This examination will be conducted for all new entrants on these estates since 1 October 1978 and will, in particular, cover the value of the glass at the time of entry and the computation for such tenants.
If this examination shows that any problems have arisen which merit special attention, consideration will be given as to what action would be appropriate.
This investigation is entirely without prejudice to the ongoing discussions on the long-term arrangements for the organisation of the Land Settlement Association.