§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what detailed consultation he has had with the National Farmers Union of Scotland on the analysis of the arrangements for agricultural advisory services in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John MacKayMy right hon. and noble Friend the Minister of State has been in correspondence with the president of the National Farmers Union of Scotland about the arrangements for agricultural advisory services in Scotland. The matter will be discussed at a meeting on 4 March between the union and officials of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for Scotland and my right hon. and noble Friend the Minister of State has arranged to discuss it further with a union delegation on 22 March.
§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his estimate of the consequences on the farming industry of the £3.4 million reduction for Scotland's agricultural advisory services in the rural areas for the years 1987–88; and if he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. John MacKayIt is the Government's aim that those who benefit from the agricultural advisory services should make some contribution towards their cost. The planned reduction in public funding in 1987–88 is therefore directed towards maintaining a strong and active service in future, financed jointly by Government and the industry itself. My officials are currently in discussion with the agricultural colleges which provide these services in Scotland to determine how best these changes may be made over the next two years.