§ Mr. Hicksasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what was the total cost for the financial years 1974–75 and 1975–76 of operating the Ellbridge Horticulture Sub-Station near Saltash; and if he will itemise the principal component costs and state any revenues derived from the horticultural activities.
§ Mr. StrangThe total cost of operating the Ellbridge Horticulture Sub-Station, near Saltash, in 1974–75 was about £29,000 and in 1975–76 approximately £38,500. These costs were offset by receipt from the sale of produce of around £4,000 and £4,500 respectively.
The principal component costs were:
1974–75 1975–76 £ £ Staff costs, including overheads 18,363 24,933 Materials (seeds, fertilisers, packaging, etc.) 3,101 3,028 Power, heat and light 1,665 2,439 Depreciation of buildings and machinery 1,953 2,204 Interest on capital 2,794 3,788 Miscellaneous expenses (rates, selling expenses, etc.) 1,106 2,199