Farmers, environmental groups and others with a vested interest in the Common Agricultural Policy are being asked to present their views on the European Commission’s proposed reforms.

Defra today urged those who will be affected by the upcoming reforms to present their views in what it described as an “informal consultation.” The proposals, which were officially published in October, following a long line of leaked drafts, have proven controversial.

The Commission’s proposed greening measures have engendered the most controversy; some in the farming community believe the measures will affect smaller and middle sized producers much more harshly than larger scale farmers, whilst others have celebrated the commissioners’ desire to reduce the impact of farming on the environment and increase resilience to climate change.

Defra today said that, in order to understand how these proposals will have an impact on a range of sectors in England, interested parties should fill in an online questionnaire. The questionnaire can be accessed here.

Agriculture Minister Jim Paice said, “We’re absolutely committed to... protecting the environment and encouraging an innovative and competitive agriculture sector. That’s why it’s crucial the people on the ground whose lives and professions will be affected are able to tell us their views.

Following assurances for Welsh farmers, Mr Paice has pledged to make sure English farmers who are thinking about entering into or renewing agri-environment agreements can choose to opt out without incurring penalties if they have to make changes to their  agreements as a result of CAP greening.

Devolved nations will be holding their own separate consultations.

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