County Agriculture and Environment Groups

HC Deb 16 March 1971 vol 813 cc299-300W

Mr. Carol Johnson

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, what progress has been made in the creation of county agriculture and environment groups; how many of these have so far come into existence; and whether he has received reports from any of these bodies.

Mr. Anthony Stodart

Some 10 groups have been set up on the initiative of county agricultural executive committees. In addition there are many other such voluntary local bodies in which county agricultural executive committees participate, and my Department has organised meetings and demonstrations on conservation during the past year. I would not expect these groups to report to my right hon. Friend. Their purpose is to promote mutual understanding at local level between those concerned with conservation, agriculture and other rural interests.