§ Mr. SteenTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will make an assessment of the viability of rearing an organic264W grass-fed herd of South Devon cattle under the Beef Assurance Scheme in the West Country; and if she will make a statement. [98358]
§ Mr. MeacherIt is for individuals to assess the viability of rearing organic South Devon cattle under the Beef Assurance Scheme in the circumstances particular to their enterprise. However, we are committed to a successful long-term future for organic farming in England. As announced in the Action Plan to develop organic food and farming in England published last July, this year we will be introducing additional financial support under the Organic Farming Scheme.