asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if, in view of the fact that a departmental plan for milk and beef production has been drawn up, he intends to introduce similar plans envisaging an increase in tillage production.

The area under tillage from year to year depends to a large extent on its profitability as compared with alternative farm enterprises. In present circumstances and having regard to the relatively high prices for tillage crops in the Community and on the world market the outlook for tillage crops is good and there is every reason for farmers to increase the acreage.

Would the Minister agree that tillage was not as good this year as it was last year and, since he cannot subsidise pricewise, would he consider subsidising acrewise because that would help to balance the different branches of the economy?

I will bring the Deputy's point of view to the attention of the Minister.