AS WE predicted two weeks ago, the Labour party will scrap the Ministry of Agriculture if they are re-elected on June 7.It will be replaced by a new Department of Rural Affairs, Prime Minister Tony Blair said when announcing his election manifesto yesterday.

The Ministry has been under for attack for some 15 years, following a series of food scandals and lost some of its major powers four years ago with the creation of the Food Standards Agency. The handling of the foot and mouth crisis proved to be the last nail in the ministry coffin.

The announcement has been met with a mixed reception. The Country Landowners' Association had called for its scrapping yesterday but today, the National Farmers' Union reacted today with much more caution.

Speaking of the proposed new rural affairs ministry, NFU Deputy President Tim Bennett said much more detail is needed about the role and make up of the new department before a full response can be given.

He added: "There are clearly many questions left unanswered about the new department but if Labour forms the next administration, we will participate constructively in its setting up.

"But, whatever the detail, we believe any new department must pass the two crucial tests of maintaining integration in the food chain and providing cabinet-level representation in Europe." With Labour odds-on favourites to win the election, these new moves will have fundamental effects on the future of the countryside. John Sheard will discuss the possible changes in A Week in the Country tomorrow.