§ Patrick MercerTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what factors underlay her decision not to draw upon EU moneys to compensate UK arable farmers. [20629]
§ Mr. MorleyWe considered the case for payment of optional agrimonetary compensation to the arable sector, the cost of which would largely have been borne by the UK Exchequer. While we acknowledge the difficulties that the sector is facing, we decided not to draw down these funds given the many competing demands on the Exchequer, not least the cost of eradicating foot and mouth disease. The arable sector will, however, be receiving £28 million in compulsory agrimonetary compensation this autumn.