asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, in view of the severe effects of interest rates on the British farming and agricultural industries, if he will have urgent discussions with those industries.

[pursuant to his reply, 9 May 1980, c. 281]: I am aware of the impact of high interest rates on many businesses, including farming and agricultural industries. It was to bring forward the prospects of lower interest rates that we have announced reductions in public spending and borrowing. Representations from the British farming industry should more appropriately be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.