§ Lord Brougham and Vauxasked Her Majesty's Government:
What action they propose to take to improve the availability of agricultural land to rent.
§ The Minister of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Baroness Trumpington)The Government believe that the tenanted sector is an important element in a healthy agricultural industry but it is clear that the current legislation is hindering the supply of land to rent. In discussions with the main interested organisations all have recognised the need for change. My right honourable friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food therefore intends to issue a consultative paper in the New Year with a view to securing a lasting and effective change without prejudice to the position of existing tenants.