Dave Thompson, SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber, and Badenoch, spoke last Thursday in a debate on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
He highlighted a 2008 report commissioned by the Royal Society of Edinburgh that reveals a “worrying tendency of the UK Government to present a position on CAP that takes no account of the priorities of the devolved Administrations.
He went on to express deep concern with the UK Government’s lack of understanding when it came to the needs of Scotland’s farmers and crofters Mr Thompson said: “I have my doubts about Owen Paterson. I hope that he will listen to the wise counsels of our Cabinet Secretary and Ministers of the other devolved nations.
Dacian Ciolos, the European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, echoed those concerns when he called for the UK Government to recognise the Scottish and Welsh “specificities”.
Mr Paterson, the new environment secretary in London, confirmed concerns by signalling that the UK Government will seek to accelerate the drive towards a free market in CAP. This is not in line with Scotland’s views, the other devolved Administrations or most of the members of the EU.
The Commission’s current proposals include a requirement that three different types of crop be grown on each holding for it to qualify for support. That measure could be particularly challenging for Scottish farmers and crofters to satisfy, as many who work in livestock areas may grow only a couple of fields of spring barley or maize and 55 per cent of Scottish agricultural land is used for rough grazing.
Mr Thompson further stated:
“The differences between the agricultural industries in Scotland and England demonstrate the need for a strong Scottish voice in the EU CAP negotiations.
The Commission’s proposals are far too simplistic for the more mixed farming that is predominant in Scotland.
We cannot trust that Scotland’s distinctive needs will be represented.
Note:
Dave’s speech can be viewed online at: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/28862.aspx?r=7385&mode=html#iob_67366
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