European Agriculture Commissioner, Phil Hogan has not confirmed a date for a mid-term review of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
Responding to questioning following a Council meeting with European Agriculture Ministers this week he said he is not announcing any date for a mid-term review of the CAP at this stage.
However, the Commissioner did tell Ministers at this week’s Council meeting that while the immediate focus remains on the Implementing and Delegated Acts, there is a point at which, perhaps when all the current and foreseen measures are implemented, we will have reached the limits of what can be achieved in relation to Implementing and Delegated Acts without opening the Basic Acts.
He said the discussions on the draft Council Conclusions showed that the decision whether and, if so, when to open the Basic Acts is not an easy one and requires careful consideration and good preparation.
“However, I have open mind regarding this, and should we be in agreement that further simplification can be delivered through opening the Basic Act, then I believe that we should give it serious consideration.
“Indeed, it may be that some of the measures and reviews foreseen could only be implemented through the reopening of the Basic Acts.
“For example, such an approach could be required in relation to any decisions taken following the EFA review or in relation to concerns expressed to me by farmers concerning the definition of active farmers, etc.
Hogan told journalists following the meeting that young farmers particular get annoyed when they see people that are not actively involved in agriculture getting payments.