§ Sir Peter EmeryTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assistance his Department gives to encourage the production and harvesting of the reeds required for thatching roofs. [101893]
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§ Ms QuinThis Department provides some payments under its agri-environment schemes for the creation, restoration and management of reedbeds as a habitat. This is not confined to reeds used for thatching. The Countryside Stewardship Scheme, Avalon Marshes Special Project, however, specifically targets the creation of reedbeds to be used for thatching.
MAFF, along with EU, The Broads Authority, English Nature, Anglian water and the RSPB, are involved in funding a research and development project aimed at establishing and demonstrating new machinery and techniques for managing wetland reedbeds and fens. The result of this work may provide techniques which benefit the production of reeds for thatching.
The Rural Enterprise Scheme, part of the package of measures under the Rural Development regulation announced by the Minister on 7 December, will provide support for a range of rural activities including renovation and development of villages and protection and conservation of the rural heritage; and encouragement for tourism and craft activities. The detailed operation of this scheme has yet to be finalised but the support provided might include various aspects of the production, harvesting and use of reeds.