§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received concerning farmers in Wales affected by the Chernobyl disaster who fell ouside the compensation system; and what measures are being undertaken to compensate them.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerOn 11 January 1988, the National Farmers Union in Wales presented to my Department 56 cases it considered to have been inadequately compensated by the direct losses scheme under the Chernobyl compensation arrangements. The evidence submitted by the union did not reveal any special problems or anomalies not already covered by the existing compensation arrangements. The union also confirmed that no new principles of compensation had been identified. I wrote to the chairman of the NFU in Wales on 23 March 1988 rejecting the 56 cases. I have no plans to extend the existing compensation arrangements, which I firmly believe are a fair and balanced response to producers' needs.
406Wthe awareness of farmers of the dangers of silage pollution; and what assistance his Department makes available to the industry to help the prevention of such pollution.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerMy Department, with the help of ADAS, is continually bringing the dangers of pollution to the attention of farmers during individual farm visits, through articles in ADAS publications, and by exhibits at various demonstrations.
Farm capital grants under the agriculture improvement scheme are available for the handling, storage and treatment of agricultural effluents and waste.