HC Deb 04 November 1974 vol 880 c82W
Mrs. Winifred Ewing

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the economic position of Scottish farmers.

Mr. William Ross

The economic position varies considerably within the industry; some sectors are buoyant while others, notably the livestock sector, are facing particular difficulties at the present time. We have already taken substantial steps to assist the dairy industry and to help hill farmers over the coming winter. We are also seeking changes in the EEC support system to give beef fatteners an assured return.

Mrs. Winifred Ewing

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will visit hill farms in Scotland in the next month to ascertain the economic situation of Scottish hill farmers; and if he will introduce immediate provisions to make a. cash award designed to enable hill farmers to continue farming.

Mr. William Ross

I am well aware of the difficulties facing hill farmers. We have already announced that the hill and upland sheep subsidies are to be substantially increased and that the 1975 payment of hill cow subsidy will commence in January, about 10 months earlier than usual. These measures should greatly improve the cash flow position in the hill sector and should help the farmers to meet their winter feed bills. I shall continue to keep a close watch on the situation.