§ Mr. McQuarrieasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he will be able to arrive at a decision regarding financial aid to the Scottish farming industry, in the light of last winter's weather.
§ Mr. John MacKayI refer my hon. Friend to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for East Lothian (Mr. Home Robertson) on 24 October.
§ Mr. Maclennanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will permit farmers in Scotland to claim grant aid under the agriculture and horticulture grant scheme after 31 December if eligible work already started or planned cannot be finished due to adverse weather conditions.
§ Mr. John MacKayThe agriculture and horticulture grant scheme already provides for an extended closing date for claims for certain important operations including reseeding and regeneration of grassland and arterial drainage in Scotland. Additionally, the Government are urgently considering what steps should be taken to assist farmers whose businesses have been affected by the bad weather. An announcement will be made as soon as possible.