§ Andrew GeorgeTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what discussions she has had and what advice she has received from(a) farmers' organisations, (b) landowners' organisations and (c) tenant farmers' organisations since her statement to the House of 12 February 2004, Official Report, columns 1585–1602, in respect of the future of farm support payments. [157122]
§ Alun MichaelSince the statement, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State, has addressed the National Farmers Union AGM and my noble Friend the Lord Whitty, has met with the Chairman of the Tenant Farmers Association. In addition we have received a number letters from farmers and landowners' organisations. Inevitably some anxieties have been expressed about the impact of the decision in certain sectors and areas. However, many of the comments show an appreciation that we took that decision in the long-term interests of the industry and demonstrate a willingness to move forward and work with the Department on the detail of implementation.