HL Deb 26 May 1999 vol 601 cc95-6WA
The Countess of Mar

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether it is their policy to discourage the production of native British hill sheep such as the Scottish Blackface and Welsh mountain breeds because they fail to meet conformation standards for lamb; and, if so, what is their policy for the farmers who breed these animals and for the environment. [HL2585]

The Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Lord Donoughue)

It is not the policy of this Government to discourage the production of the UK's hill sheep breeds which have a valuable role to play in preserving genetic diversity and managing the hill environment. However in view of the economic crisis facing all sheep producers we believe it is essential that they tailor their supply and carcass quality to the requirements of the domestic and export market places and will encourage them to do this.