NFU Cymru calls for 0% set aside

Following representations by NFU Cymru, the European Commission is now looking to introduce proposals that will see the compulsory rate of set-aside for autumn 2007 and spring 2008 planting seasons reduced to 0%.

Speaking at Pembrokeshire County Show, Perkin Evans, NFU Cymru's County Chairman said, "NFU Cymru has been calling for the abolition of compulsory set aside for some time now. The last round of CAP reform in 2003 was about market-led production, it is therefore an anomaly that set aside has until now, continued to constrain the ability of one sector to meet what is clear market demand. That is why NFU Cymru is very pleased to see these proposals from Europe."

Mr Evans went on to say, "The time is right for this proposal by Commissioner Fischer Boel, EU intervention stocks of grain have shrunk considerably from 14m tonnes at the beginning of 2006/2007 to 2.5m tonnes now. If these proposals come to fruition they should encourage the production of an additional 10-17 m tonnes of cereals in 2008, which should help ease market tensions."

Mr Evans added, "Changes to EU rules can often be lengthy processes, and it is unlikely that this will be on the statute books before November, which will not be in time for many farmers to make planting decisions. That's why as an industry we're looking for clear signals from the Commission in the coming weeks that this will go ahead; this should then allow farmers to plan ahead before the final green light from Brussels."

Mr Evans said, "Welcome as they are, these proposals do not of course mean the abolition of set-aside, that is a debate for next year's CAP Health Check. I would also like to point out that a 0% compulsory rate does not preclude farmers from setting aside land voluntarily should they wish to."

There has also been some more good news for farmers in Wales recently regarding set-aside. Following NFU Cymru representations a derogation permitting the use of set-aside land for summer grazing of cattle where heavy rains have ruined summer grazing pastures has been granted by the Welsh Assembly Government.

Perkin Evans concluded, "Clearly this is welcome news for some producers, but I would remind farmers that before taking any action they will need to contact their Divisional Office and explain their individual circumstances, as each application for the use of set-aside does depend on individual circumstances."