AIC welcomes 'sensible' proposals on set-aside

The Agricultural Industries Confederation has welcomed formal proposals from the Commission to reduce the set-aside requirement for 2008 to zero as a sensible response for farmers and the broader industry.

"In making its proposal the Commission has reaffirmed the purpose of set-aside as a supply management instrument," said Paul Rooke, AICs head of policy. "Failure to act now would expose the EU to 'potentially serious risks' in the event of a further poor harvest in 2008."

For some time industry evidence, on the practical response to set-aside policy has been consistent. It has drawn a distinction between actions on short term rotational set-aside compared to longer term non-rotational where a return to production is considered far less likely.

"Despite the wild claims recently made by certain NGOs, we are confident that farmers' response will be measured ensuring reduced risk of crop shortages without compromising the environment," said Mr Rooke. "We trust it will give the green light to Defra to support the Commission's proposal and ensure it is implemented fully in the UK as soon as possible. And we hope that the proposal can quickly complete its passage through the EU Parliament and be finalised as soon as possible."