HC Deb 17 December 1987 vol 124 c725W
31. Mr. David Porter

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what further measures will be taken to encourage farmers to diversify their enterprises.

Mr. Gummer

A scheme to offer capital grants for farm diversification was laid before the House on 18 November. I understand that it was debated in Committee this morning. Those grants will be available from 1 January 1988. In addition, associated grants for enterprise feasibility studies and initial marketing costs will be introduced later next year under powers being sought in the Farm Land and Rural Development Bill which reached Report stage in another place today.

61. Mr. Neale

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what further measures have been taken to assist farmers to diversify their enterprises.

Mr. Gummer

Under the powers in the Agricultural Training Board Act 1987, which my hon. Friend the Member for Cornwall, North (Mr. Neale) has introduced as a private Member's Bill, the Agricultural Training Board has recently set up a number of training courses designed to help farmers' diversification possibilities.

I also refer my hon. Friend to the reply given today to the question from my hon. Friend the Member for Waveney (Mr. Porter).