Common Agricultural Policy

HC Deb 25 November 1999 vol 339 cc205-6W

27. Mr. Hope

To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what proportion of farm incomes is derived from direct payments and price supports under the CAP. [98864]

Ms Quin

The overall value of direct payments and price supports received by UK producers under the Common Agricultural Policy in 1997–98 exceeded total income from farming across all sectors by around 70 per cent.

This demonstrates the very considerable levels of financial assistance being provided to agricultural producers. It also demonstrates the inefficiency of the Common Agricultural Policy, as it currently operates, in securing rural objectives and promoting a sustainable agricultural industry.

This figure was published on the Ministry's internet site in August 1999, as part of the consultation on the Agenda 2000 reform of the Common Agricultural Policy.