§ Mr. Geraint Howellsasked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what is his policy towards direct income aids for farmers; and if he will make a statement;
(2) if he will make a statement on measures encouraging retirement from farming within the EEC.
§ Mr. Gummer[pursuant to his replies, 5 and 6 May 1987]: At present, nationally paid direct income aids for farmers are incompatible with articles 92 to 94 of the' treaty. However, the Commission has just published proposals on this subject which also include measures to encourage early retirement from farming in the Community. It would be premature to comment until we have had the opportunity to study these proposals.