| Author (Person) | Cronin, David |
|---|---|
| Series Title | European Voice |
| Series Details | Vol.9, No.3, 25.1.03, p2 |
| Publication Date | 23/01/2003 |
| Content Type | News |
|
Date: 23/01/03 By THE European Commission is sticking by its demand that the link between farm subsidies and production levels should be broken, despite relentless opposition from several EU governments led by France. Farm Commissioner Franz Fischler yesterday (22 January) unveiled revised proposals for reforming the €40 billion-per-year Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). They retain the key ingredients of his previous plans, published last July. In particular, Fischler is adamant that 'decoupling' - ending the system whereby subsidies are based on farm output - should be introduced. The current system has been blamed for bringing EU farm policy into disrepute by making it a byword for food mountains. The Austrian dismissed as "entirely unjustified" claims he wants farmers to be paid for idleness. He feels, instead, those who manage their land properly will be rewarded as payments will be based on compliance with environmental, food safety and animal welfare standards. "Those who violate principles - who become involved in hormones or pollute the water - will be vigorously prosecuted," he said. The revised package is due to be considered by farm ministers next week (27-28 January) but the debate is likely to continue for months. France's powerful farm lobby has warned the reforms would drive thousands of farmers out of business. "The Commission's approach seems dangerous," said one French diplomat. Under the new proposals, farmers who currently receive more than €5,000 in EU subsidies will have the amount they receive gradually reduced. Those in the €5,000-50,000 bracket will receive 12.5 less in 2013 than 2007, while those receiving higher amounts will receive 19 less. Farmers under the €5,000 threshhold will not be subject to reductions. According to Fischler, the plan will address current inequalities, whereby 20 of the Union's farmers enjoy 80 of subsidies. The revised plan has also come in for criticism from COPA, the Committee of Agricultural Organisations in the European Union. "The end effect would be to make us poorer," said Secretary-General Risto Volanen. Anti-poverty group Oxfam argued the plan would "do nothing" to stop 'dumped' EU sugar and dairy products undermining farm incomes in developing countries. Environment campaigners BirdLife International branded the provisions on respecting nature as "too weak". The group complained they are limited to punishing farmers who break the law, rather than demanding higher standards in all rural areas. The European Commission is sticking by its demand that the link between farm subsidies and production levels should be broken, despite relentless opposition from several EU governments led by France. |
|
| Related Links |
|
| Subject Categories | Business and Industry |
