To ask the Scottish Executive what measures it is taking, or considering taking, to extend habitat for bees and other creatures following the ending of set aside.

The ending of set-aside has been discussed at CAP Stakeholders Group meetings, and we are currently considering whether options can be developed to retain some of the environmental benefits which were produced as a by-product of set-aside. We will consider, as part of that process, concerns about the habitat of bees and other creatures. In the meantime, the Scotland Rural Development Programme contains a number of biodiversity priorities which are designed to encourage farmers to deliver targeted environmental benefits.