Local Euro MP and Labours Agricultural spokesman, Brian Simpson has welcomed an initial European Court Decision which has insisted that farmers maintain public footpaths that cross their land, if they wish to receive single farm payments.

The case was brought against the UK Government by English farmers who claimed that  DEFRA were discriminating against English farmers by linking their single farm payment to the maintenance of public footpaths, something which Wales and Scotland has yet to do.

“The upkeep and maintenance of our public footpaths is absolutely essential if we are to allow the general public to have access to our wonderful countryside, and I’m sure the vast number of farmers appreciates this and keep footpaths open and accessible as part of their stewardship of the countryside.  However, there are some who don’t and this Court decision makes clear what their obligations are” said Mr. Simpson.

However, Mr. Simpson has some sympathy with English farmers in that the conditions of payment of the single farm payment and the maintenance of footpaths does not apply to the devolved authorities in Wales and Scotland.

“What is needed now is for the Welsh Assembly and Scottish Parliament to follow the lead of England by linking their single farm payment  to the maintenance of public footpaths.  This will then protect our footpaths for years to come throughout the whole country giving access and enjoyment to thousands of our citizens”.

The European Court has demonstrated a very progressive attitude on this issue and I would expect the two devolved authorities to respect their decision” he said.