HC Deb 28 January 1991 vol 184 cc390-1W
Mr. Alex Carlile

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many farmers were declared bankrupt in each of the years 1979 to date; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Curry

Figures for bankruptcies in England and Wales for the agricultural and horticultural sectors from 1979 to date are as follows:

No. of bankruptcies per centage of total bankruptcies
1979 55 1.7
1980 50 1.3
1981 70 1.5
1982 78 1.5
1983 98 1.5
1984 155 2.0
1985 136 2.1
1986 130 1.9
1987 172 2.4
1988 162 2.1
1989 142 1.7
11990 136 2.2
1 first half.

Note: Figures from 1983 onwards were set out in 'Business Briefing' published by the Association of British Chambers of Commerce dated 9 November 1990. Previous figures were published in 'British Business' dated 29 April 1983 and 22 January 1982.

The balance sheet from British agriculture remains strong with liabilities representing less than a fifth of total assets.