§ Andrew GeorgeTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs how many funding schemes are available through her Department for farmers who wish to adopt environmentally friendly farming practices; and how much is available per scheme. [81150]
§ Mr. Meacher[holding answer 20 November 2002]The three main agri-environment schemes run by this Department are the Environmentally Sensitive Areas Scheme, the Countryside Stewardship Scheme and the Organic Farming Scheme. Their budgets in the current financial year are £48 million, £66 million and £20 million respectively. In addition, organisations such as English Nature, the Countryside Agency and the National Park Authorities which receive funding from this Department also operate some schemes.