§ Mr. JackTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) what representations he has made about the projected incomes for 1997–98 for Welsh hill farms to other Government Ministers; and if he will make a statement; [16382]
(2) if he will make a statement on the reasons underlying his support for applying the 1996 levels of hill livestock compensatory allowance in 1998. [16383]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsThe Government are in the process of deciding the HLCA rates for 1998. My right hon. Friend and I met both Welsh farming unions recently and heard their concerns about hill farming in Wales. I share much of that concern, as I made clear in my speech in the House on 5 November.
It is also important not to raise false expectations. The Government have indicated that they intend to live within public expenditure targets set by the previous Government. That Government provided an extra £60 million for HLCAs in 1997 only.