Breadcrumbs
A New Opportunity for the Countryside - 8 June 2001
Rural Advocate and Countryside Agency chairman Ewen Cameron said: "We welcome the creation of a brand new government department to lead renewal in rural areas. This is a golden opportunity for the joined up approach the Countryside Agency has been advocating - a chance to set the development of sustainable agricultural policies in a wider rural context. The Countryside Agency will continue its vital role as the countryside champion and 'watchdog'.
"Foot and mouth is hitting all rural areas, some much worse than others. It reinforces the need for real advances in public policy to deliver a much more sustainable future for our countryside. The creation of a new independent commission to listen to views from all sides and advise on a new long term policy will also be crucial. We must achieve sustainable, competitive and diverse farming and food industries operating within a thriving rural economy and delivering environmental and social goals."
We believe there should be four main priorities for the department:
- Implementing the Rural White Paper and Independent Commission outcomes - leading to a rural renewal in environment, economy and social fabric;
- Leading Europe in the cause of CAP reform - enabling a switch from wasteful production subsidies to targeted payments for public amenities (environmental, social and rural development);
- Promoting a food supply chain (especially through the supermarkets) which is more responsive to the needs of consumers. The new department needs to be the consumer champion, promoting quality as well as competitiveness;
- Making real progress on animal welfare and health.
The Countryside Agency is responsible for advising government and taking action on issues affecting the social, economic and environmental well being of the English countryside.
