The Common Agricultural Policy - the UK View Claire Wilding British Embassy Paris

Some common myths about the UK’s view on CAP The UK wants to scrap the CAP Key aim of UK CAP policy is to save money

Why reform the CAP? Allow farmers to produce for market Reduce cost for consumers and taxpayers EU priorities (jobs, growth, climate change, security) But need to retain benefits –environment –rural development

UK approach Context: globalisation, climate change, economic growth, consumer demand Vision for agriculture: –Profitable without subsidy –Rewarded by market for its outputs –Net contributor to environment –Manager of natural assets

UK Vision for EU agriculture Elimination of pillar 1 Lower tariffs Remaining subsidies focussed on services farming provides for society –environmental improvement –flood management

What about farmers? CAP inhibits ability to respond to market signals CAP currently inefficient at helping farmers - much of benefit goes to landowners and producers of inputs Negative impacts of intervention Avoid future painful adjustment

Food security? Food security vital –climate change Diversity of supply Agriculture needs to respond to market signals Need to develop agriculture in Africa

Conclusion UK wants to see radical reform of the CAP EU agriculture can thrive under a more liberal regime Food security vital - but 100% self sufficiency not the answer Need to reorient budget to better reflect modern-day EU priorities