§ 11. Mrs. Betty WilliamsTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what action he has taken to ensure that aid to hill farmers encourages the adoption of environmentally beneficial farming practices. [142347]
§ Mr. MorleyThe upland environment depends on viable hill farm enterprises. Less favoured area support payments include environmental objectives and are tied to good farming practice. The taskforce my right hon. Friend the Minister announced on 23 November is examining how to strengthen hill farming in England using the whole range of ERDP and other measures.
§ 15. Charlotte AtkinsTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what assistance the Government have given to hill farmers to help them diversify. [142351]
§ Mr. Nick BrownThe Rural Enterprise Scheme provides new grains for all types of farmers, including hill farmers, seeking to pursue good diversification projects. Other measures, such as the vocational training scheme and the farm business advice service, also offer relevant support.