§ Mr. WillsTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what the total amount paid under the Common Agricultural Policy was in the United Kingdom to(a) limited companies and (b) to individuals in the most recent year for which figures are available. [144457]
§ Alun MichaelThe figures represent the European Agriculture Guidance and Guarantee Fund year 2003–16 October 2002 to 15 October 2003.
The figures include CAP market support and structural funds for the above reporting year.
These figures represent payments to English farmers Information for other countries within the UK is a matter for their respective devolved assemblies.
£ Limited Companies 574,273,502.02 Individuals 1,464,032,029.02
§ Mr. JackTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs if she will recommend to the Leader of the House that a debate should be held on Common Agricultural Policy reform prior to decisions being made on the methodology to be employed in implementing the single farm payment. [R][151159]
§ Margaret Beckett[holding answer 27 January 2004]: I am aware that a number of Members would welcome such a debate. However, I am always conscious that there are very heavy pressures on parliamentary time. The timing of such a debate is a matter for the Business Managers.