§ Lord Marlesfordasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether it is mandatory that they follow the new guidance received from the European Commission concerning the maximum width of field margins that is consistent with the use of full Ordnance Survey areas in claims under the Arable Area Payments Scheme (AAPS) under the Integrated Administration and Control System (IACS) rules; and what representations they have made to the European Commission on the adverse environmental effects of this new guidance. [HL767]
§ Baroness HaymanFailure to follow the guidance from the European Commission concerning the maximum width of field margins to which the noble Lord refers, or indeeed Commission guidance on other aspects of the rules for the farm-based aid schemes under the Common Agricultural Policy, risks the withholding of reimbursement of Exchequer expenditure from the EU budget. In the case of the guidance on field margins, this might also place in jeopardy the ability of our farmers to continue to claim payment, where appropriate, on the full Ordnance Survey areas of their fields.
164WAWe are neverthelss concerned that this clarification of the AAPS rules might be detrimental to wildlife. We are currently analysing what effect it might have and evaluating the options for minimising any problems which may arise. MAFF's guidance urges farmers that, if they need to adjust the width of a field margin, they should seek advice on minimising the environmental impact of any such change.
My right honourable friend the Minister discussed his concerns about the guidance, including the potential for adverse environmental implications, with the office of Commissioner Franz Fischler earlier this month and officials are pursuing these concerns with the European Commission.