Group reviews 2003 CAP reforms

By VEENA ZACHARIAS

Friday, 20 June 2008: DEFRA has launched a 12 week consultation on the European Commission’s proposals for the “health check” of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

The health check is a scheduled review of the major CAP reforms of 2003, which could have potentially significant implications for farmers across the EU. The review proposes measures for protection of the environment and for cutting prices for consumers.

“The outcome of the consultation by Defra (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) will influence UK’s stand during the negotiations. It will inform Defra of the opinions that organisations intimately involved with farming hold”, said Farm Crisis Network deputy director Helen Bagwell.

Defra's consultation seeks comments on the proposed improvements to the Single Payment Scheme, improving market orientation, and responding to new environmental challenges.

The consultation involves 232 consultees including ASDA, National Farmers’ Union, and Farm Crisis Network, Friends of the Earth, Dairy Crest and British Veterinary Association. It is due to close on 1 September this year.

As well as reviewing the 2003 reforms, the health check is intended to prepare the way for longer-term reform of the CAP following the EU budget review in 2009/10.

The UK will be fully engaged in the EU negotiations on the health check, with agreement expected to be reached before the end of the year.