§ Mr. McQuarrie asked the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what amount of money has been paid to Scottish farmers for the annual ewe premium for the 1980–81 marketing year; what was the value paid per ewe; and if he will make a statement;
§ (2) whether Her Majesty's Government have decided to pay an additional £1.40 per ewe to Scottish producers based on the EEC forecast of £2.80 per ewe for the 1981–82 marketing year; when this money will be paid to the producers; and what will be the total value of the payment.
§ Mr. Younger:The sheep annual premium for 1980–81 was 67.93p per ewe. This was paid to Scottish producers on 7 October along with the advance payment of £1.40 per ewe for 1981–82. The total sum paid was £6,927,000. Any balance that may be due for 1981–82 will be paid after the end of the marketing year, when the European Commission will have all the information necessary to determine the final rate for that year.