§ Mr. EadieTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has any further proposals to cut agricultural research and development funding in Scotland.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythOur current proposals are set out in the White Paper "The Government's Expenditure Plans 1988–89 to 1990–91" Cm. 288-II.
§ Mr. Andrew WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what definition his Department uses of the term near market, as applied to agricultural research and development.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThere is no formal definition. It is, however, a convenient way of referring to the kind of work of direct commercial benefit towards which the Government believe industry should contribute more.
§ Mr. Andrew WelshTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what reviews are being, or have been, carried out by or on behalf of, his Department into agricultural research and development funded by his Department; when the results of any such reviews will be published; and if this information will be made available to the House.
§ Mr. Michael ForsythThe programmes of agricultural research and development are kept under continual review in association with the Priorities Board for R and D in Agriculture and Food, the Agricultural and Food Research Council, the Scottish Agricultural R and D Advisory Council and other bodies. Ad hoc reviews are also undertaken from time to time into specific subject areas or other issues, as appropriate.