Alternative Land Use (Hansard, 14 January 1987)

§ Mr. Kirkwood
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consideration is being given to alternative land use and employment initiatives in rural areas.

§ Mr. Donald Thompson
As the right hon. Member will know, I have been pursuing the reform of the common agricultural policy vigorously in Brussels. The various implications, including alternative land use and the effect on the rural economy remain under active consideration.
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§ Mr. Kirkwood
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will publish a While Paper on alternative land use and employment initiatives in rural areas.

§ Mr. Donald Thompson
I shall continue to give careful consideration to the best method of keeping all concerned informed about my policies in this and other areas.

§ Mr. Kirkwood
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consultations he has had with the National Farmers Union on alternative land use and employment initiatives in rural areas.

§ Mr. Donald Thompson
My Department has regular discussions with the National Farmers Union about the Government's policies for agriculture and the reform of the common agricultural policy including alternative land use and the implications for the rural economy.