He writes:
The Common Agricultural Policy, which affects all of us farmers in England and Wales as well as those in Europe, has got to be one of the most difficult subjects to get a firm grip on.
This is why my ears prick up when I hear terms such as “CAP simplification” being bandied about. But what does it actually mean? I joined a group from the Next Generation Policy Forum travelling to Brussels to find out.
“Simplification” was used by various diplomats to relate to the future of the CAP, but the term is now wide open for interpretation and debate.
The new CAP came into force on January 1, 2015 but already farming and the environmental lobby are suggesting changes. The last CAP had 7,000 amendments for crying out loud.
European budgets will continue to be under intense pressure as we head towards the CAP in 2020. But the agri-food industry provides more than 40 million jobs in Europe, so there’s plenty to focus minds of MEPs.
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In essence “simplification” means giving more flexibility to individual countries. However, somewhat paradoxically, this increases the complexity of the overall policy.
Confused yet? Here’s a little more on what I gleaned from my trip.
Pillar 1 is an easy target to be reduced by the EU, even though it is required to provide stability in these volatile times.
Pillar 2 is an area British farmers should utilise and speak to MEPs about to ensure that it continues to be focused on agri-environment measures which maintain the Great British countryside. Rural development provides future proof investment opportunities which help farms to cooperate, provide supply chain opportunities and more choice for consumers, create jobs and improves international competitiveness.
The Common Agricultural Policy in 2020 will remain a huge issue here in Brussels and will directly impact on us at home. That is why, after visiting the European Parliament this week, I am convinced that we need to have a strong voice in the debates that directly impact the CAP.
We are in safe hands with the small, experienced and passionate NFU team in Belgium. I am glad it is them doing this crucial and complex work on our behalf – I think I’ll stick to work on the farm!