To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the prospects for organic farming in Wales. [76993]
The Welsh Organic Food Sector Action Plan was launched by Mr. Gareth Rowlands, Chairman of the Organic Working Group, Mr. David Rowe-Beddoe, Chairman of the Welsh Development Agency, and by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales, on 8 March.The industry-led Plan sets out an agenda for developing the organic sector in Wales, with the aim of encouraging an expansion of organic farming to 10 per cent. of the Welsh agricultural produce.The Organic Conversion Information Service provides free advice to prospective organic farmers and the Organic Aid Scheme provides direct support for conversion. Subject to the approval of the European Commission, the new payments rates available under the Organic Aid Scheme are as follows:
| £ per hectare | |||
| APPS eligible land | Ineligible land | Unimproved grassland rough grazing | |
| Year 1 | 225 | 175 | 25 |
| Year 2 | 135 | 105 | 10 |
| Year 3 | 50 | 40 | 5 |
| Year 4 | 20 | 15 | 5 |
| Year 5 | 20 | 15 | 5 |
| Total | 450 | 350 | 50 |
To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what assistance he will give to beef farmers to switch into (a) organic beef and (b) other products; and if he will make a statement. [76994]
The Welsh Lamb and Beef Sector Action Plan was launched by Mr. John Lloyd Jones, Chairman of the Lamb and Beef Working Group, Mr. David Rowe-Beddoe, Chairman of the Welsh Development Agency and by my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Wales, on 8 March. The industry-led Plan sets out an agenda for developing the Lamb and Beef sector in Wales, and the assistance that will be available to farmers.Subject to agreement by the European Commission, the payment rate available under the Organic Aid Scheme for beef farmers converting to organic production will be increased to £350 per hectare paid over five years. The current rate is £250 per hectare in non Less Favoured Areas and £50 in Less Favoured Areas.In future, following the transfer of functions, this issue will be a matter for the Assembly.