European alliance calls for a ‘Common Food Policy’ to replace the CAP

“The policies governing food systems – CAP, trade, environment, health and food safety – are disconnected from one another, and too many priorities fall through the cracks.

“We need a fundamental transition to sustainable food and farming systems. We need shifts in food production, processing, retail and consumption to occur at the same time. And we need a clear direction of travel at EU level.

“That is why we need a Common Food Policy.”

MEPs have also criticised the Commission’s proposals for CAP reform, expressing concerns about a ‘re-nationalisation’ of policy which could distort competition in the single market and rejecting the 5 per cent budget cut.

European farming group Copa-Cogeca supported the MEPs’ position, with president Joachim Rukweid warning farmers’ incomes were only around 40 per cent of average earnings.

“We welcome the fact that MEPs have deplored any cuts in the EU’s farm budget and want more clarity on the Commission’s figures”, Mr Rukwied said.

“Direct payments, which are the best and by far the most efficient way to stabilise farmers’ incomes and help them to better manage income risks are being eroded further under this proposal.”