Defra ministers and ministers from the devolved parliaments have met to discuss the European Commission’s proposals for reform of the Common Agricultural Policy from 2014. The ministers met to develop a clear stance going forward as the policy is debated in Europe.  image expired

Defra chief Caroline Spelman said, “I want to build a spirit of trust with the Devolved Administrations, where there is a shared understanding that Defra is representing the best interests of everyone in the UK.

“Although within the UK we will have differences about how we approach certain policies at times, it’s important that the rest of Europe hears one voice from the UK when we are involved in negotiations on issues which are fundamental to our fishing and farming industries and to the health of our environment. I was delighted to hear colleagues from the Devolved Administration say today that they recognise the importance of us all working positively together.”

Defra Ministers last week began Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) negotiations on behalf of the UK at the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council, following the publication of reform proposals by the European Commission. The government has called for drastic changes to the policy; the UK government has said it wants to cut the amount of money going to farmers as subsidy payments, which it believes will increase competition, and more support going towards protecting wildlife and biodiversity.

Spelman has been incredibly critical of the EC’s proposals, which she said “could actually take us backwards.” Ms Spelman and Farming minister Jim Paice have attempted to forge alliances, visiting their opposite numbers in other EU states to increase support for their desired changes. However, following criticism for the department's handling of a number of countryside issues including the proposed badger cull and the planned forest sell-offs, Defra's claims to be 'On the side' of Britain's farmers and countryside dwellers may not immediately spark confidence in rural communities. 

Ms Spelman commented on Tuesday’s meeting with the devolved administrations, “Today’s meeting was very constructive and I’m pleased with the very positive level of engagement shown by everyone. We are going to keep working with all parts of the UK as the Ministerial team here at Defra leads the negotiations in Europe in the coming months.”