HC Deb 30 January 1989 vol 146 c59W
Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) what information he has about the intention of EEC member states to introduce new direct aid schemes for farmers;

(2) which European Economic Community member states currently operate direct income aids for farmers.

Mr. Ryder

None. The Council reached agreement on the Commission's income aid proposal on 24 January. Member states wishing to implement this optional regulation have four years in which to submit their proposals to the Commission.

Mr. Ron Davies

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will take steps to introduce a direct income scheme for farmers.

Mr. Ryder

I have no plans to do so.