I REFER to an article in the Hereford Times (Soaring land prices a bar in farming to new farmers, November 27) in which Ben Compton, a rural affairs specialist from Bruton Knowles, referred to the soaring price of agricultural land.

The report also stressed that entry into the agricultural industry should not be simply through inheritance alone. I fully endorse his comments which without doubt go to prove that the action recently taken by the Herefordshire Independents and supported by other opposition members in preventing the present Conservative administration disposing of the council’s smallholdings, was appropriate.

The Independents accept that the lease agreements and other issues in respect of these properties require reviewing, to ensure a reasonable return is received for county taxpayers.

However, we strongly believe that the large majority of these small farms should be retained for the very reason that they were originally purchased, namely to give youngsters wishing to enter the industry a start.

As Mr Compton stated, there are many well qualified and enthusiastic young people keen to enter the agricultural industry, and the council smallholdings are one of the few opportunities left for them to do so.

With constant warnings of possible food shortages in the world, it is essential that we should continue to support the agricultural industry in every way possible, and encouraging young people to be involved is vital for its future prosperity.

CLLR BOB MATTHEWS Credenhill Ward, Leader, Herefordshire Independents