The government has launched a consultation on how the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) should shape the future of farming and the rural economy in England.
The new EU rules set the framework for how CAP funding may be spent, but the UK government successfully pressed the Commission to agree that each country within the UK may make choices on how CAP is implemented from 2015.
That is why Defra is now seeking views on how the Common Agricultural Policy should be implemented in England in order to deliver value for money for the public.
The consultation process has been opened to gain input from all corners of society as the CAP decision will have an impact on hedgerows, trees, wild flowers, birds, bees, water quality and the appearance of the landscape.
The consultation is wide ranging in its scope:
- Growing the rural economy
The consultation sets out the potential to grow the rural economy, for example through business grants and investment in rural tourism.
- Improving farm competitiveness and making things simpler
Views are sought on how the Common Agricultural Policy can be implemented in England with minimal burdens and how CAP can support businesses to thrive and become less reliant on subsidies.
- Protecting the natural environment
Defra has proposed that a new environmental land management scheme should replace existing environmental stewardship schemes and also cover forestry. The consultation invites responses on how the Common Agricultural Policy can best benefit wildlife and improve natural landscapes.
- Protecting pollinators
The consultation will explore options for the Common Agricultural Policy to do more for pollinators, including shaping the new environmental controls that are part of direct payments, voluntary action under the Campaign for the Farm Environment and the new environmental land management scheme.
Responses to the consultation can be made online.
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