§ Dr. David ClarkTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he has plans, or has held 135W discussions with other bodies, about introducing an experimental scheme to allow farmers to maintain footpaths and bridleways as agents of county councils; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Gummer[holding answer 11 July 1988]: My officials have held discussions with the Countryside Commission about an experimental scheme proposed by the Commission under which farmers would maintain footpaths and bridleways under contract to the highways authority. I would fully support the aims of such a scheme.