§ Gregory BarkerTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the average age is of British farmers; and how this has changed over the last 30 years. [137283]
§ Mr. BradshawThe average age of holders in the United Kingdom has increased from 53 in 1975 (the earliest year for which figures are available) to 54 in 2000. The available data are shown in the table:
Estimated Average age of UK holders 1975 53 1990 53 1993 53 1995 54 1997 53 2000 54 Notes
The EC Farm Structure Survey is held across all Member States of the European Union four times each decade, to assess the agricultural situation across the Community and to monitor trends in the structure of holdings.
The holder is defined as the (natural or legal) person in whose name the holding, be a hereditary long-term leaseholder, or a usufructuary or a trustee.
The data are collected in age bands. The average age has been calculated by utilising the mid-point of each age band. A mid point of 67 is assumed for the age band "Aged 65 and over".
Source
EC Farm Structure Survey