§ Lord Melchettasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will confirm that the five farmers currently carrying out (or who have recently completed) land drainage schemes on Tealham and Tadham Moors in Somerset have discussed their drainage schemes with ADAS staff; whether any commitment or advice has been given to the farmers by ADAS concerning the availability of grant-aid for such drainage, and if so what; and whether they will confirm that ADAS had not discussed these drainage proposals with the Nature Conservancy Council before the work started; and
Whether they are aware that the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food have recently informed the Nature Conservancy Council (NCC) that they do not intend to consult the NCC in all cases where they become aware of proposed agricultural developments on land identified as being of particular importance for wildlife in the Somerset County Council's Levels and Moors Consultative Plan published in May 1982, and whether they will make a statement.
Earl FerrersFarmers who seek ADAS advice on proposed operations in the areas referred to (as in similar areas elsewhere) are urged to consult with the Nature Conservancy Council, or to permit ADAS to consult the Nature Conservancy Council on their behalf, before the proposed operations are undertaken. It would not be proper for ADAS officers to breach the confidence entrusted to them by farmers, with whom ultimate responsibility for consulting with the Nature Conservancy Council must rest.
In all the recent cases, where ADAS has been consulted over land drainage schemes on Tealham and Tadham Moors, these procedures have been applied. Where grant availability has been discussed, advice has been given in general terms and no commitment has been made.