§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what policy initiatives he proproses to safeguard and to enhance the incomes of hill farmers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Wyn RobertsFarmers in our less-favoured areas benefit directly from a number of special measures that are already in place, including the hill livestock compensatory allowances, enhanced rates of capital grants and for 1991 the maximum permitted payment under EC rules of the suckler cow premium. For the future we shall continue to seek to ensure that hill farmers in Wales are able to compete effectively and on equal terms with the rest of Europe.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received from hill farmers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Wyn RobertsDuring his recent visits to a number of hill farms my right hon. Friend discussed with farmers a wide range of issues affecting the agricultural industry in the less-favoured areas of Wales.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many times he has visited European Community institutions on the continent to discuss upland farmers in Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Wyn RobertsIn line with long-established practice, my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food takes the lead in European Community discussions and negotiations. We are in regular contact with him and we know that he is fully apprised of the needs of the upland farmers in Wales.