HL Deb 08 May 2001 vol 625 cc183-4WA
The Earl of Sandwich

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they have received any estimates of funds raised by charities for farmers and rural businesses affected by foot and mouth disease; what impact these funds have on government assistance; and whether information on areas receiving priority assistance is shared. [HL2100]

Lord Whitty

No complete estimate of moneys raised by charities and other organisations has been compiled. The Countryside Agency has received eligible bids of £2.67 million under the matched funding scheme, of which £1,476 million have been paid to date. I understand that the agency expect a further bid of £2 million. Further applications are anticipated.

All donations from charities and other organisations and the matched funding scheme are additional to the Government's mainstream package of assistance for farmers and businesses affected by the foot and mouth disease.

The Countryside Agency has issued a press notice on each occasion that funding has been awarded under the matched funding scheme for public donations to foot and mouth relief. In addition, information on areas receiving priority assistance is freely available on the DETR website.