Set-aside consultation published
NFU President Peter Kendall has acknowledged Defra’s willingness to work with the industry in developing a voluntary approach to set-aside replacement.
He called on stakeholders to get behind the non-regulatory option announced today when Defra published its full consultation on proposals to recapture the presumed environmental benefits of set-aside.
The document confirms the Secretary of State’s assurances at the NFU Conference that Defra would consult on an industry-led alternative, following lobbying by the NFU.
Mr Kendall said: "There is a clear choice - between an option we think will adversely impact on farmers’ existing stewardship options, add to regulatory burdens and force land out of production and an option which will champion those farmers who are already doing the right thing, and encourage others to do their bit to promote a sustainable, productive environment.
"Ministers have said they see the potential of an approach that does not rely on regulation. This is a very positive signal and I look forward to Defra’s support in the development of our proposals."
He added: "In the same way as the consultation document says the benefits of any measures may not be apparent for a number of years, equally the same argument has to be applied to the impact of set-aside removal.
"Regardless, the industry takes its environmental responsibilities seriously and believes a chance has been presented to show again how voluntary, industry-led approaches like the Voluntary Initiative and Environmental Plan for Dairy Farming can win the hearts and minds of farmers and achieve lasting change."
Today’s document also includes important developments in respect of buffer strips, soil management, abstraction licences and management of land not in production.
On soil management, there is a welcome proposal to simplify the existing cross-compliance criteria, notably by obviating the requirement to apply for waterlogged field derogations. The NFU also applauds the intention to simplify conditions in respect of uncropped so-called GAEC 12 land.
