§ Mr. Peter Millsasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that a limit of £100,000 for the size of project for FEOGA grants does not act to the disadvantage of small businesses; and if he will take steps to alter the system so as to benefit other dairy areas.
§ Mr. BishopI recognise that this limit does rule out small projects. A reduction in the limit would not necessarily be beneficial, as there would be increased competition for the limited funds available and more applicants would be unsuccessful or rates of grant would be reduced. I am considering, however, whether any change can be made for the 1976 scheme.