To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will give details of representations he has received from (a) the Scottish National Farmers Union and (b) others in relation to the MacSharry proposals for the reform of the common agricultural policy; and if he will make a statement.

Various representations from the Scottish NFU and others have been received. We have stated clearly our opposition to the discriminatory features of the Commission's proposals, and our aim to achieve a reform which encourages a more market-oriented CAP; which applies fairly across all the agricultural sectors; which maintains financial discipline; and which builds in environmental objectives for the countryside. Discussions on CAP reform are continuing in the Agriculture Council.