asked the Minister for Agriculture the number of farmers who were registered for the milk recording scheme in 1979 and 1980; how much money was outstanding under the scheme from farmers in both years; how much money was stopped by his Department from other grants to pay for the milk recordings; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Milk Recording Scheme.
268.
The number of farmers who were registered for the milk recording scheme in 1979 and 1980 was 1,200 and 1,180 respectively. The amounts of money at present outstanding from farmers in respect of each year is £18,326 and £88,100 respectively. Fees do not fall due for payment until after the end of lactation, mainly in the period October to December each year and are not generally paid until the following year.
No money was stopped by my Department from other grants to pay for milk recording fees. This step may however become necessary if their attempts to collect the amounts due prove unsuccessful.