Draft reforms of farming policy unveiled

The European Commission has released details of draft reforms to environmental legislation that applies specifically to farmers.

Representatives have put together a ten-point plan to shake up the partnership between Europe and its farmers via the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

Much of the changes centre around encouraging competitiveness and sustainability, while incentives such as green payments will be issued to agricultural workers who optimise their use of natural resources.

The policy alterations will also aim to lower the average age of farmers throughout the continent, as figures showed that two-thirds are over 55 years old.

Commissioner for agriculture and rural development Dacian Ciolos highlighted the importance of farming.

"The next decades will be crucial for laying the foundations of a strong agricultural sector that can cope with climate change and international competition while meeting the expectations of the citizen," he remarked.

Notable reforms have previously been made to the CAP in 2003 and 2008 and the latest updates are scheduled to be in place by 2013.

Posted by Claire Manning