At its Wednesday session, the Government decided on the launching of its programme entitled "Land for the Farmers!", within the framework of which 200 thousand hectares of state-owned land may be leased to farmers, the Minister for Rural Development announced in Budapest during the Government Spokesperson's press briefing on Wednesday.

Sándor Fazkeas indicated that state-owned territories with rental agreements that expire before 31 March 2017 would be included in the programme.

The objective of the tender programme is the reinforcement of small and medium-sized estates. Accordingly, the Government wishes to modify the current 50-50% ratio of small and large estates such that the ratio of large estates is reduced to 20% and the number of small and medium-sized farms increases to 80%.

Leasehold agreements will be put up for tender during the first half of the year, the Minister stated, adding that applications will be judged by the end of the year. He reminded those present that before 2010, the 600 thousand hectares of state-owned land was rented to 600 leaseholders, 42 thousand hectares of the 65 thousand hectares of state-owned land included in the programme had already been made available, of which leasehold contracts have already been concluded with some 1600 leaseholders in relation to 36 thousand hectares. As a result, the number of leaseholders has already tripled, Sándor Fazekas noted.

In reply to a question from the press, Mr. Fazekas also stated that the reviewing of previous leasehold agreements is in process; illegal contracts have been and will be terminated. Also in reply to a question from the press, he said that 92 percent of the contracts already signed with relation to the use of state-owned land were for areas under 50 hectares, with only 2 percent concerning areas of farmland in excess of 100 hectares. These latter territories are usually comprised of grassland and meadows.

Sándor Fazekas reminded those present that those who win tenders to lease state-owned land receive an opportunity to work and make a living. He also noted that the Government and the Ministry of Rural Development was committed to supporting family-run farms and small and medium-sized farms.

(MTI)