§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what special programmes are it place to support and encourage apple growing in England. [186287]
§ Alun MichaelThere are no programmes specifically to subsidise apple growing, but, Defra funds a substantial research and development programme of benefit to apple and other fruit growers. Growers are also eligible for assistance under the England Rural Development Programme. In particular, Defra's Countryside Stewardship Scheme funds the conservation of about two-thirds of England's traditional orchards.