§ 16. Mr. Nicholas WintertonTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what recent discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the regional co-ordination of assistance for the rehabilitation of the agriculture industry. [15986]
§ Mrs. RocheThe Government are committed to assisting the development of a sustainable, competitive and diverse farming and food sector within a thriving rural economy that advances environmental, health and animal welfare goals.
The rural recovery co-ordinator, Lord Haskins, and the Rural Task Force each published their reports on 18 October with recommendations for the short term survival of rural business, and mid term strategies for rural recovery after the foot and mouth disease outbreak. The Government will respond shortly to both reports.
My right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister has ongoing discussions with the Secretary of State for Environment Food and Rural Affairs on these and other matters.