§ Mr. OnslowTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what discussions he has had with the National Rivers Authority about the need to review the system of water abstraction licences for agricultural purposes.
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§ Mr. CurryOur officials have had several meetings with the National Rivers Authority, and consultations with the NFU and CLA, to discuss the problems of this year's drought and the consequent ban on spray irrigation in certain areas. The aim is to improve farmers' awareness of the importance of conserving supplies and to provide advice on ways of achieving this.
§ Mr. OnslowTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he is taking to encourage farmers to increase impounded water supplies for irrigation purposes.
§ Mr. CurryInvestment in impounded water supplies is a decision for the farmers concerned. Only they can make the commercial judgment as to whether the benefits from increased yield and security of production during periods of dry weather justify the investment costs.