§ 26. Mr. BrandrethTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations she has received regarding the future of the Weeds Act 1959; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Gillian ShephardIn response to our consultation on the future of the Weeds Act 1959, some 1,000 representations were received from individuals and bodies, the majority of which were against repeal of the Act.
After careful consideration of these responses by Agricultural Ministers, my noble Friend the Earl Howe announced on 11 October that the Act would be retained. I am pleased that it is perceived as serving a useful purpose.
Year Whole-time principal farmers, partners and directors (doing farm work) Salaried managers Whole-time family workers Whole-time hired workers Total number of whole-time workers 1980 136.6 6.9 19.5 121.3 284.2 11993 112.9 7.1 16.6 72.1 208.0 1 Provisional results. Notes:
Source: June Census of Agriculture and Horticulture each year.
Includes estimates for minor holdings.
Figures exclude;
(i) the wives/husbands of farmers, partners and directors, even though they themselves may be partners or directors.
(ii) seasonal or casual workers.