Common Agricultural Policy reform post 2013

This discussion paper invites views on the European Commission’s recently published Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Regulatory proposals for the period 2014 - 2020, that were released on 12 October 2011.

Defra is seeking views from (English) farmers, environmental groups, rural communities, non-governmental organisations and other interested parties on how these proposals may impact those directly affected by the CAP.

The proposals may have significant potential impacts for English stakeholders and include a proposed replacement for the Single Payment Scheme, revised rules which will guide the next Rural Development Programme in England, and new initiatives such as ‘greening’, ‘capping’ and a dedicated ‘small farmers’ scheme. A reduction in the number and detail of the current Good Agricultural and Environmental Conditions and Statutory Management Requirements are also proposed.

Negotiations have now commenced between all 27 member states of the European Union to discuss the detail of the regulatory proposals and the European Parliament has started consideration of the proposals. Defra is seeking the views of interested parties to help inform the UK negotiating position, which also takes account of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland interests.

It will be some time before the proposals are finalised and for the first time,** in relation to CAP reform proposals, agreement between the European Commission and the European Parliament is required under the ‘co-decision’ terms of the Lisbon treaty. The Commission and Council have an ambition to secure agreement by the end of 2012 to allow implementation on 1 January 2014. However, as with all other elements of the proposals, this will form part of the negotiation. **Further consultation and assessment of the impact of implementation will be carried out at the appropriate time.

Defra invites the views from all those who may be affected by these proposals.

Responses to this discussion paper should be sent, by 5 March 2012, to:

EU Agriculture and Budget Strategy Team
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
EU Budget and Agricultural Strategy Programme
Area 5D
9 Millbank
C/O Nobel House
17 Smith Square
London
SW1P 3JR

Or alternatively by email to cap.reform@defra.gsi.gov.uk

• Common Agricultural Policy reform