Livestock Farming (Northumberland)

HC Deb 16 November 2000 vol 356 c779W

17. Mr. Beith

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will make a statement about the prospects for livestock farming in Northumberland. [137150]

Ms Quin

The Government announced in September 1999 and March 2000 substantial aid to the livestock industry—on top of the £1 billion in normal subsidy payments made to UK livestock producers each year.

£1.6 billion over seven years will also be made available under the England Rural Development Programme and with natural advantages such as an abundance of grass, good breeding stock and a wealth of technical expertise at their disposal, the Government believe livestock farmers—including those in Northumberland—should have a successful future.