HC Deb 05 November 1993 vol 231 cc507-8W
Mr. Tyler

To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations she has received since her announcement on 11 August on the agri-environment programme about the exclusion of current organic producers from the scheme.

Mr. Jack

Since the Minister made her announcement of the proposed organic aid scheme she has received 241 letters asking her to reconsider the decision not to aid existing organic producers. The vast majority of these were from producers who said that they already followed organic methods.

Mr. Tyler

To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what is her estimate of the amounts to be paid per hectare for organic support in each European Community member country in the year 1993–24.

Mr. Jack

This information is not available as the EC Commission has yet to approve any organic programmes under the agri-environment regulation.

Mr. Tyler

To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what will be the predicted effect on existing organic producers of the new agri-environment package she announced on 11 August.

Mr. Jack

I shall write to the hon. Member.