Lyon to set out EU Parliament position on CAP reform

10.36.21am GMT Wed 11th Nov 2009

George Lyon, Liberal Democrat MEP for Scotland, has been appointed by the European Agriculture Committee to draft a report setting out the Committee's priorities for the upcoming reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

The Lisbon treaty, which comes into force on 1st December, gives the Agriculture Committee joint decision making powers with the Council of Agriculture Ministers. The report will play a key role in developing the Parliament's blueprint of how farm support should be delivered from 2013 onwards.

Mr Lyon's report will be published in May 2009 ahead of the EU Commission's own proposals for CAP reform which is expected in June.

Commenting, Mr Lyon said:

"The ratification of the Lisbon Treaty makes it possible for the Agriculture Committee to play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the next reform of the CAP. It is, therefore, a great honour to be nominated by the Committee to draft this important report.

"It is clear that the CAP budget is threatened because of increased pressures on public spending as a result of the financial crisis.

"A recently leaked Commission draft budget paper called for a cut in CAP spending to free up spending for new priorities. Co-financing by Member States, cuts in SFP and increased compulsory modulation would all have a devastating impact on Scottish farming.

"We all recognize that budgets are going to be tight but I believe it is vitally important that the CAP continues to give farmers a viable future.

"I intend to consult widely with the industry both here and across Europe to ensure farmers have a strong voice in the final report. I hope to meet with Hilary Benn and Ministers from the devolved administrations across the UK to hear their views and I intend to meet with Brian Pack to discuss his vision for future support of Scottish Agriculture.

"The report will be adopted as the European Parliament's negotiating position so it is vital that the farming industry's voice is heard.

"Scotland has never had a better opportunity to help set the agenda on future support for our farmers. It is my hope that this report will mark the first step in securing a sustainable future for farmers in Scotland and across Europe."