HC Deb 13 May 1977 vol 931 cc609-10W
Mr. Bulmer

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many members of his Department of the rank of Assistant Secretary or above have at least one year's practical experience in farming.

Mr. John Silkin

Detailed figures are not readily available. Most officers in the professional group at Assistant Secretary level and above have spent a substantial part of their careers dealing with on-farm problems. Many of them have necessarily had at least one year's experience working on farms before entering for academic qualifications in agriculture. In the Administration and Science Groups, however, such experience is uncommon, and an agricultural education or background is not required on entry.

Mr. Bulmer

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many members of his Department of the rank of Assistant Secretary or above have at least one year's practical experience in forestry.

Mr. John Silkin

My right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Wales and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland and I are advised on forestry matters by the Forestry Commission. The Commission employs seven officers of rank equivalent to Assistant Secretary or above with professional qualifications and many years' experience of practical management in forestry.

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