HL Deb 02 February 2000 vol 609 c44WA
Baroness Gould of Potternewton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the latest position on farm incomes. [HL826]

Baroness Hayman

Estimated figures show that total income from farming remains broadly unchanged in 1999 compared to 1998. The continued difficulties in the farming industry are as a result of lower prices for most agricultural commodities due to the over supply of commodity markets. The strength of sterling, which affects all sections of the economy, has also been a factor. Detailed estimates of the income, output and productivity of United Kingdom agriculture in 1999 were published on 31 January 1999 and were placed in the Library of the House.