asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the recent survey, the result of which indicates that a lesser area of agricultural land in Europe generally will supply the food needs of present markets by the end of the century; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The article referred to deals with the possible future land requirements of the EC, excluding Spain and Portugal, to the year 2000. Using Dutch and Danish studies, it identifies the possible levels of surplus grassland and arable land which could be in evidence by that date and suggests alternative uses to which this land could be put. These alternatives include options which would suit our climate and soil conditions.