APPENDIX 11
Memorandum submitted by Business Link
Cumbria (E14)
I understand that the Agriculture Committee
is reviewing the operation of Regional Service Centres and that
representations can be made up to 5 May 2000.
I am writing on behalf of my organisation with
first hand experience of the Carlisle Regional Service Centre,
in particular through the delivery of our 5b funded farm support
programme. During the past four or five years we have benefited
enormously from the support and advice of the staff at Carlisle
including the Regional Director. Without this help and assistance
the programme would not have been the success it has.
This reflects the breadth of understanding which
this particular centre has of upland farming and their capacity
to tailor support packages relevant to local needs. Carlisle is
probably unique in this respect and therefore it is difficult
to see how appropriate advice can be made available to Northern
hill farmers without access to a local centre. There will continue
to be specific support under Agenda 2000 for hill farmers and
they will continue to need a local specialised service.
Our research shows that there are still many
small farms in the area which do not have access to computers
and electronic mail. Whilst this is now being addressed it will
be several more years before all farmers are able to use this
type of communication or have access to an intermediary service
provider.
In conclusion we believe that the Carlisle Centre
provides a unique service relevant to the farming types which
predominate in this Region and should be maintained. In addition
as the economics of the office are competitive, and there is ready
labour supply available in the area, this is an office capable
of expansion.
4 May 2000
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