HC Deb 06 February 1990 vol 166 c547W
Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what initiatives he proposes to take concerning the difficulties encountered by upland farmers in Wales; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

We have just announced an 11 per cent. increase in the hill livestock compensatory allowance for hardy breed sheep in the severely disadvantaged area, bringing the rate up to £7.50. For the future, we shall seek to ensure that upland farmers in Wales are able to compete effectively and on equal terms with the rest of Europe.

Mr. Barry Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will meet the farmers' unions in Wales to discuss the needs of the upland farmers; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State regularly meets representatives from the Welsh farming unions to discuss a wide range of issues affecting agriculture in Wales.