§ 20. Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what representations he has received about the level of hill livestock compensatory allowances. [38946]
§ Mr. BoswellOn 26 October, I met the members of the Hill Farm Advisory Committee. The level of hill livestock compensatory allowances was discussed. Later today, Agriculture Ministers will meet representatives of the farming unions in the context of the autumn review of economic conditions in the hills and uplands which considers the rates of payment and conditions for the HLCA scheme in the approaching year. In addition, officials have met a number of other organisations whose members have an interest in the HLCA scheme to hear their views on this subject.
§ 23. Mr. GallieTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement in the importance of hill livestock compensatory allowances to the maintenance of communities in remote areas. [38949]
§ Mr. BoswellIt is difficult to determine precisely the importance of hill livestock compensatory allowances to the maintenance of communities in remote areas. However, the deadline in the labour force on agricultural holdings in the less-favoured areas over recent years has been slower than the decline in other areas. The contribution which the HLCA scheme makes to hill farm output has declined from 9 per cent. in 1992–93 to 6 per cent. in 1994–95. Other direct subsidies are now much more significant than they were; direct headage payments to livestock farmers in the hills and uplands are expected to amount to £615 million, of which £107 million will come from HLCA payments.