§ 14. Mr. DrewTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what long-term trends have been identified in his Department's study of farm incomes and farm support payments. [83861]
§ Mr. Nick BrownIn the short term there may be a small negative impact on aggregate incomes as the industry adjusts to the recent reforms to the CAP. The industry's long-term future is best secured by a policy of reduced reliance on production related support which the UK continues to press for.
§ 16. Mr. SwayneTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assessment he has made of the impact of falling farm incomes on the rural economy. [83863]
§ Mr. Nick BrownThe rural economy is best served by a competitive and efficient agriculture industry. Agenda 2000 represents a step in the right direction in achieving this. The scope to strengthen the environmental and rural development components of the CAP is particularly welcome.