Zero set aside is an opportunity for farmers says Euro MP.

Local Euro MP and Labour’s Agriculture spokesman in the European Parliament, Brian Simpson, has welcomed the decision to adopt a zero set aside in 2008 and believes it is an opportunity to develop environmental stewardship and sustainable conservation in our rural areas. The move to reduce set aside has been made to ease pressures caused by increasing global demand for grain and will give farmers and growers the flexibility they need to meet the demands of the worlds markets. “With concern growing in regard to world grain shortages it is clearly ridiculous to have land set aside and the taxpayers paying for the privilege. Whilst I appreciate this could lead to land with a high conservation value going under the plough, I believe farmers will see the added value of retaining conservation land, further contributing to maintaining the increases we have seen in such things as wildlife” said Mr. Simpson. Mr. Simpson also welcomed the commitment by the NFU to work with the Government to demonstrate how areas of conservation importance can be included in future Environmental Stewardship scheme. “It proves clearly that our farmers are committed to exploring all opportunities to show that agriculture can achieve not only prosperity and high productivity but can also encourage wildlife and protect the environment. If we can secure a fair deal for farmers on prices then everybody should be happy” said Mr. Simpson.