asked the Minister for Agriculture the proposals, if any, he has to replace the EC Social Fund payments which were recently withdrawn from ACOT, as this funding was a major support in the development of the certificate in farming programme, the success of which was highlighted at the recent presentation of certificates to the scheme's first graduates; his views on this programme's importance in view of the increased requirements in formal training for young farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

ACOT will incur some shortfall in budgeted receipts this year from the European Social Fund. This shortfall is being met by the provision of an additional Exchequer grant of £0.835 million and by the authorisation of temporary borrowing facilities pending receipt of ESF payments in early 1987. The Government has already expressed its support for the certificate in farming programme.