Lyon: Ciolos says eligible acres are Scottish Government responsibility (Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale Liberal Democrats)

Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale Liberal Democrats <info@libdems.org.uk>

Lyon: Ciolos says eligible acres are Scottish Government responsibility

May 14, 2010 11:39 AM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

George Lyon, Liberal Democrat MEP for Scotland, has received a letter from EU Agriculture Commissioner Ciolos that makes it clear that it is for the Scottish Government as the national authority to define the relevant obligations for farmers as regards land covered with bracken.

George Lyon MEPThe Commissioner also makes it crystal clear that the Commission has discussed land eligibility issues but has not touched on the specific issue of land covered with bracken nor has it led to changes to the current legislative framework.

The letter also points out that the Scottish Government can modify GAEC requirements without prior authorisation from the Commission.

Commenting, Mr Lyon said:

"It is crystal clear from this letter that it is the Scottish Government that has shifted the goal posts on the definition of eligible land and not the Commission.

"Why has the Minister failed to tell the industry, or even consult with them, before changing the rules on eligibility is a mystery to me. His desperate attempts to blame the Commission for what is clearly a mistake by the Scottish Government will fool no one.

"NFU Scotland has confirmed that the guidance notes on eligible land in previous years have never included a reference to either whin or bracken covered land being excluded.

"Richard Lochhead should hold up his hands and admit they got it wrong and grant an amnesty to those who have been caught out by the new rules and allow more time for the industry to adjust to them."