§ 21. Mr. ÖpikTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what recent discussions he has had with the First Secretary about promoting organic farming. [130897]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI meet the First Secretary on a regular weekly basis and we discuss a wide range of issues. I understand that the National Assembly has committed nearly £3 million to the organic farming scheme in its first year of operation. The scheme pays grants to farmers to help them through the period of conversion to organic farming. I also welcome the launch of the Centre for Organic Excellence in Aberystwyth on688W 10 July, which will help the Assembly achieve its aim of converting 10 per cent. of agricultural land to organic production by 2005.