§ 37. Mr. Andrew WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to defend Scotland's agricultural interests and rural areas; and what representations he has made regarding the general agreement on tariffs and trade talks which are taking place.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe arable and dairy sectors in Scotland have generally experienced a favourable year in 1990.
In the livestock sector, however, farm incomes are expected to fall again this year. The Government have already acted, by intervention in the beef sector, by raising the suckler cow premium in the less-favoured areas to the maximum sum payable, and by bringing forward the two advance payments of the sheep annual premium. The circumstances of livestock farmers in the hills and uplands in Scotland are currently being considered in the annual hill farming review.
My right hon. and learned Friend contributes fully to the Government's policy towards the general agreement on tariffs and trade.