This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Concern over CAP reforms
27/01/2003
Rural Development Minister Ross Finnie today joined with
UK colleagues in highlighting concerns over the European
Commission's proposals for reform of the Common
Agricultural Policy.
Speaking in Brussels where Mr Finnie attended the
Agriculture and Fisheries Council, he said:
"Scottish and UK Ministers share concerns over the
Commission's position on the Mid-term review of CAP.
"Following discussions with UK colleagues, the UK
delegation drew attention to its concerns on specific areas
of the commission's proposals.
"These included the effect of the commission's proposals
on extensive beef production, an area of particular concern
to Scotland.
"In addition, the commission was urged to look again at
its proposals for distributing resources allocated under
Pillar 2 of the CAP. The allocation process must begin to
tackle the historic inequalities, which have resulted in
such a low share for the UK and, in particular,
Scotland.
"I will continue to play a constructive role in
discussions to promote Scotland's interests."