HL Deb 14 May 1986 vol 474 cc1265-6WA
Lord O'Hagan

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What effects the Common Agricultural Policy has on employment in rural areas; and what changes they propose.

The Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Lord Belstead)

Employment in agriculture is one of many factors affecting rural employment. In that it helps to encourage a prosperous agricultural industry, the CAP clearly has an effect on employment levels in the industry. In addition, the Government are committed to encourage rural enterprise as a further means of stimulating rural employment, utilising appropriate domestic and Community measures.