§ Lord Randall of St Budeauxasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will report progress on farm incomes. [HL4840]
§ Baroness HaymanWe are disappointed to note that predictions for farm incomes for this year suggest a further significant fall of 27 per cent by comparison with 1999. A statistical press release has been placed in the Library of the House.
The Government remain committed to helping farmers through these difficult times. Last December, the Minister announced the Government's long-term strategy for agriculture, which aims to help secure a more competitive and sustainable farming industry, with a stronger market orientation.
This commitment is underpinned by a comprehensive range of initiatives including reform of the common agricultural policy; significant increases in expenditure on rural development and agri-environment schemes; new measures to reduce the burden of regulation on farming; promotion of increased co-operation and collaboration across the food supply chain; and targeted financial support to the sectors in greatest difficulty.