Progress in cutting farm red tape

EFFORTS to cut red tape for farmers are going quite well so far, according to the cross-party Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee. But they must not be allowed to falter, says the MPs’ committee, which watches the workings of Defra.

Chairwoman Anne McIntosh is a Conservative MP, for Thirsk, Malton and Filey, but has so far emphasised her independence by leading the committee to highly critical conclusions.

Her committee offers a rare compliment in its report on the work of the Farming Regulation Task Force ... “The Efra Committee congratulates the Task Force for striking a successful balance between upholding standards and over-zealous regulation.”

Mrs McIntosh said last night: “My committee looks forward to a clear timetable of practical steps to cut back the overly burdensome regulations that threaten to stifle English farm businesses.

“Over half of all Defra’s regulations come from EU requirements. It is essential that Defra engages earlier and more proactively in Europe to reduce the cost burden imposed by EU regulations in future. It must also ensure that adequate staff resources are available to deliver this engagement.”

The Efra Committee supports a move to “risk-based” regulation, meaning fewer inspections for farms which are in independent assurance schemes. See www.parliament.uk/efracom/