§ Mr. KeetchTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to encourage retailers to promote sales of organically grown potatoes; and if he will make a statement. [78930]
§ Mr. MorleyDecisions on the sourcing of produce at retail level are matters for the commercial judgment of the various food retail companies. It is not the Government's role to interfere in such decisions. However, Regulations were laid before Parliament on 11 March which will significantly increase aid for fanners in England converting to organic practices. We expect that this will result in an increase in the area of land being farmed organically and potentially more organic produce available for sale to consumers.