To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) if he will make a statement on his policy towards flax sowing, with special reference to the Offham marshes site of special scientific interest near Lewes; [9518](2) what plans he has to amend the fibre flax regime to prevent previously uncultivated land which is ploughed from qualifying for payments under the regime; and if he will make a statement. [9520]

[holding answer 18 July 1997]: The Government consider that fibre flax is a useful alternative crop, whose production we should in general like to encourage. A number of changes have recently been made to the EU regime which should ensure that flax is grown on suitable land, appropriately cultivated and processed for a definite end use.However, in view of recent concern, we are looking at a range of options specifically to address the problem of flax cultivation on valuable wildlife sites.As regards the Offham marshes site of special scientific interest, I understand that ploughing and cultivation of crops is considered to be an acceptable operation, provided certain safeguards are observed.