§ 20. Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what financial and 885W technical assistance is offered by her Department to farmers who wish to diversify their operations; and if she will make a statement. [13084]
§ Alun MichaelThe Department provides grants for farmers in England for good diversification projects through the Rural Enterprise Scheme, and skills training to support those projects through the Vocational Training Scheme, both of which are part of the England Rural Development Programme. Funds are also available from the Regional Development Agencies to renovate redundant farm buildings. Technical assistance is provided by the Rural Development Service and through the Farm Business Advice Service.
§ 35. Charlotte AtkinsTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what financial assistance is available to hill farmers to diversify their businesses. [13099]
§ Alun MichaelThe Rural Enterprise Scheme (RES), which is a part of the England Rural Development Programme, provides grants for all types of farmers, including hill farmers, seeking to pursue good diversification projects. The RES has a total budget of £152 million between 2001 and 2006. Financial assistance is also available for planning consultancy advice for viable diversification projects under the RES. Other funding is available from Regional Development Agencies in the form of Redundant Building Grant. Additional measures, such as the Vocational Training Scheme and the Farm Business Advice Service, also offer relevant support.