§ Mr. Speedasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what information his Department has on the yield of crops planted on land that has previously been subject to open-cast coal working.
§ Mr. John MackieMy Department has direct responsibility for the land only during the period when it is being prepared for return to the owner. During this period the cultivations are mainly temporary grass crops, and no detailed records of cropping are maintained. The Department's advisory officers do however maintain contact with the land after its return to the owners so as to keep a watch on the progress of its recovery.
§ Mr. Speedasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food by what machinery his Department's views are given when open-cast mining applications are made that involve the permanent or temporary loss of agricultural land.
§ Mr. John MackieMy Department is among the bodies consulted by the National Coal Board before the Board 387W applies formally for authorisation from the Minister of Power. This consultation covers both the general aspects of the proposal and in particular the measures required to safeguard agricultural interests if open-cast working is authorised.