Farm Bankruptcies

Mr. Alex Carlile
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food how many farmers were declared bankrupt in each of the years 1979 to date; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Curry
Figures for bankruptcies in England and Wales for the agricultural and horticultural sectors from 1979 to date are as follows:

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Note: Figures from 1983 onwards were set out in 'Business Briefing' published by the Association of British Chambers of Commerce dated 9 November 1990. Previous figures were published in 'British Business' dated 29 April 1983 and 22 January 1982.

The balance sheet from British agriculture remains strong with liabilities representing less than a fifth of total assets.