We are urgently developing research requirements with other European laboratories to make sure we understand and the disease (Schmallenberg) better.Europe rallies behind France on CAP calls
TWENTY-ONE European nations – with the notable exception of Britain – have rallied behind a French-led initiative to defend direct farm subsidies beyond 2013.
French Agriculture Minister Bruno Le Maire convened a meeting for ‘like minded’ nations in Paris yesterday (Thursday, December 11) but Britain was snubbed for its vision to phase out all farm subsidies and protection.
A joint statement from the 22 nations in Paris read: “Together we make a resolute choice of a European agriculture and food policy.”
Industry leaders in Britain have expressed their concern that the Government’s stance will continue to leave it on the periphery of CAP discussions and could affect its ability to defend the interest of British farmers.
Even though Defra sent a representative to the Paris talks, the NFU said the Government would have to ditch its ‘ideological stance’ over the CAP or risk being dominated by continental Europe.
Readers' comments (3)
Anonymous | 11 December 2009 4:16 pm
I have more faith in the French to look after farming than I do in our own Labour Government! I am sure british agricultural will benefit from the English intervention of anti-rural policy!
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Anonymous | 15 December 2009 2:15 pm
A government should represent its people,
probably the most important is supply of food and energy at relativity stable level
Present government has failed on both accounts
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Anonymous | 16 December 2009 2:05 pm
VIVE LA FRANCE. Can Mr Sarkozy plese see off our mad cap govt who are hell bent on destroying british agriculture.
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