HC Deb 03 December 1990 vol 182 cc12-3W
Dr. David Clark

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how much has been allocated for the farm conservation grant scheme for(a) 1989–90, (b) 1990–91 and (c) 1991–92; how much has been taken up in 1989–90 and 1990–91; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gummer

In England for the 1989–90 financial year, £9 million was allocated for the farm and conservation grant scheme and £6,029,000 was spent. For the 1990–91 financial year, £23,230,000 was allocated and expenditure to the end of October was £10,821,000. Expenditure in the latter half of the financial year is traditionally higher than in the first half and we do not expect a significant underspend this year. The planned allocation for 1991–92 is £22,926,000.

Dr. David Clark

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether grant aid is available under the farm conservation grant scheme to cover the costs incurred as a result of reinforcement of the electricity supply due to the installation of new pollution control equipment; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gummer

No, these grants are targeted on equipment to treat, handle and store waste. The very generous 50 per cent. grant is higher than the EC norm and was only approved by the EC Commission because it did not cover ancillary items. A widening of the grant would therefore have to be offset by a cut in grant rates or withdrawal of grant from other farm waste investments.