HC Deb 09 December 1958 vol 597 cc39-40W
100. Sir D. Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how much of the cost of existing marginal agricultural production grants is incurred in Caithness and Sutherland.

Mr. Maclay

In 1957, the last complete year for which figures are available, the amount was £120,993.

111. Sir D. Robertson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if the Government's decision to discontinue marginal agricultural production grants will apply to crofters and small farmers with less than 20 acres arable or grass.

Mr. Maclay

Under the Bill at present before the House, small marginal farmers with under 20 acres of crops and grass will continue to receive marginal assistance grants for a further three years, where the Agricultural Executive Committees concerned are satisfied that the economic position of the farms warrants it. The proposals in the Bill do not affect registered crofters, who are assisted under a separate scheme.