§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) how many applications he has received to date for assistance under the aid scheme to assist farmers in Scotland wishing to convert to organic production methods, which he announced in August;
(2) what is the estimated expenditure in the current financial year in respect of aid to those wishing to convert to organic production methods in Scotland; and what is the estimated expenditure in 1994–95 and 1995–96.
§ Mr. Lang[holding answer 7 February 1994]: The proposed organic aid scheme is not yet open for applications. It is part of the Scottish agri-environment programme currently with the EC Commission for approval. Subject to approval by Parliament and the Commission, planned expenditure on the Scottish agri-environment programme is expected to be in the region of £11 million in 1995–96.
§ Mr. WallaceTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received since the August 181W announcement on the agri-environment programme about the exclusion of current organic producers from the aid scheme proposed for organic production methods; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Lang[holding answer 7 February 1994]: Since the August announcement about a proposed organic aid scheme, 22 representations have been received about the position of existing organic producers. Existing producers are not excluded from the scheme provided they have further land to convert. The scheme is designed to encourage farmers to convert to more environmentally friendly farming methods, not as a subsidy for existing organic producers.