HC Deb 06 November 1997 vol 300 c306W
Mr. Llwyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what consideration is currently being given to an application for European funds to offset the effects of Green Pound price fluctuations on agricultural prices and subsidies; and if he will make a statement. [14165]

Mr. Win Griffiths

Paying the aid would have significant implications for UK public expenditure. We are keeping the case of payment under review, but on the evidence currently available have concluded that the case for payment is at present not proven.

Mr. Llwyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales how many representations he has received in the past six months on the subject of Green Pound fluctuations in respect of the value of subsidies received by Welsh farmers; and if he will make a statement. [14078]

Mr. Win Griffiths

The Department has received written representations from the two farming unions in Wales and seven others on the impact of Green Pound fluctuations on agriculture. Ministers and officials have also received delegations from farming and farm-related organisations on several occasions.

Mr. Llwyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) when he last met representatives of the National Farmers' Union in Wales to discuss current farming issues; and if he will make a statement; [14080]

(2) how many representations he has received on the review of hill livestock compensatory allowance; and if he will make a statement. [14084]

Mr. Win Griffiths

My right hon. Friend and I have received seven representations from industry bodies and Members of Parliament concerning the 1997 Autumn Review of economic conditions in the hills and uplands. My right hon. Friend and I also recently met, separately, representatives of the National Farmers' Union of Wales and the Farmers' Union of Wales as part of the Review in Wales to discuss the level of rates for the 1998 Hill Livestock Compensatory Allowance scheme year. We are now considering, with Ministers from all the Agriculture Departments, the representations we have received before making final decisions on rate levels for 1998.