§ Mr. Heddleasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received regarding alternative use for redundant farm buildings.
§ Mr. Donald ThompsonIt is often suggested to us that redundant farm buildings could be converted to non-agricultural uses as part of a diversified farm business. Grants are already available in the less favoured areas under the agricultural improvement scheme to assist in the conversion of farm buildings for craft and tourism activities and as my right hon. Friend the Minister announced in the House on 9 February we shall shortly be extending this to cover a wider range of diversification882W uses. In addition the development commission offers grants in its rural development areas for the conversion of redundant rural (including farm) buildings to light industrial and other uses.