Brexit: Farmers Debate
Full Debate: Read Full DebateDepartment: Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Lord Carrington
Main Page: Lord Carrington (Crossbench - Excepted Hereditary)Department Debates - View all Lord Carrington's debates with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
(3 years, 3 months ago)
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Lord Gardiner of Kimble (Con) [V]
What we said was that that would be the end of the direct payments system. We are now concentrating on a system of agri-environment and other support mechanisms, which we think are value for money. They will reward farmers for the provision of public goods.
Lord Carrington (CB) [V]
My Lords, I draw attention to my interests as set out in the register. I am comforted by the Minister’s response but, sadly, the world does not stand still as we await details. Bearing in mind the topical issue of flooding, I am concerned that, without specific government support, farming profitability will be insufficient to finance the renewal of field drains that are reaching the end of their life. These are so important to flood prevention and farm productivity. Please can the Minister confirm that this necessary expenditure will be covered by ELMS?
Lord Gardiner of Kimble (Con) [V]
My Lords, on flooding, particularly of agricultural land, a lot of work is going on and I will look into that matter.