Policy Director's Blog - 20 July 2010

The CAP reform debate gained further momentum at a pre-recess conference in Brussels this week.

And, as a result of the conference, are we any closer to knowing what will be in the Commissions proposals when they are published at the end of the year? – No!

It would be fair to say that Commissioner Ciolos is still playing his hand close to his chest.

In true political style, the Commissioner is “keen to engage and gather views” as he develops his thoughts on the future of the CAP and this week’s gathering of invited attendees brought together a range of people from academics, environmentalists, animal welfarists and farmers to discuss the CAP post 2013.

Wide ranges of views were aired but there were some common themes. It is clear that the CAP needs to be delivering for citizens and transparent to them. Clarity on the goals and what the CAP provides needs to be clear. On this we have a good story to tell but we need to make sure we tell it as often as possible and recognise that not all citizens want or expect the same. 

A territorial approach for the future CAP recognising the differentiation of the situations within Member States by providing flexibility on implementation and prioritisation within a common framework seems a certainty.

It is clear though that Budget will be key. Forget the idea of developing the right policy and drawing down the budget to deliver it. The budget will be set and the policy will have to be delivered within what is given.

A highlight of the conference was the ‘Flavour for Life’ event open to the Brussels public. Think of a series of stalls promoting products from each Member State. To the credit of the devolveds, the Scots and Welsh dominated the UK stall. Much promotional material was on display and at the forefront was the Scottish Food and Drink policy. I am pleased to report that the Scottish beef carpaccio on offer was excellent and was all gone by the close on Monday night.