§ Miss McIntoshTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what proposals he has to promote agri-environment measures for smaller dairy farmers to offset lower commodity prices. [91298]
§ Mr. MorleyAgri-environment schemes provide payments for farmers to manage their land with the objective of protecting and enhancing the natural beauty and diversity of the countryside. The schemes are not designed to offset the effects of lower commodity prices. Payment rates are calculated on the basis of the income forgone and costs associated with managing the land in accordance with scheme requirements.
The schemes do, however, include measures which provide smaller dairy farmers with the opportunity of managing their land in an environmentally sensitive way.
The schemes are promoted through the issue of scheme literature, project officer advice and targeted publicity.