Farmers and crofters are being reminded that Common Agricultural Policy (Cap) rules will still apply when the UK leaves Europe tomorrow.
NFU Scotland (NFUS) says all processes and associated rules of Scotland’s current Cap schemes will remain in place, and farmers must still comply with current rules on cross compliance, mapping, greening and the Single Application Form.
“On Brexit day, all farmers and crofters must bear in mind that the rulebook is not being thrown out the window,” said NFUS president Andrew McCornick. “They must ensure that they continue to comply with current regulations if they are to avoid penalties.
“It is business as usual as we enter the EU exit transition period and negotiate new trade agreements with the EU.”
He said the Scottish Government’s Agriculture (EU Retained Law and Data) (Scotland) Bill would enable Scottish ministers to tweak existing Cap rules to provide a degree of “much-needed simplification” and to develop new policy options through the piloting of new schemes between 2021 and 2024.
“But we also need clearly defined objectives for Scottish agriculture for the next 10 years to 2030,” added Mr McCornick.
“That is given greater urgency by the twin challenges of growing Scotland’s vitally important food and drinks sector whilst also making a very significant and positive contribution to tackling the climate change challenge.
“That requires clear policy direction and the development of a new approach to supporting farmers and crofters based on activity and actions that underpin productivity and environmental delivery.”
