Friends of the Earth calls for long-term aid for sustainable farming18 October 2001
Friends of the Earth welcomed Lord Haskin's recommendations for short-term support for farmers and small businesses hit by the foot and mouth crisis. But Lord Haskin's suggested farmers should not expect long-term support, which is disappointing. Friends of the Earth is calling for a radical new agricultural policy which rewards farmers for good stewardship of the land, protection of wildlife and contributions to the local economy.
Farmers now being offered short-term help won't survive if the Government remains committed to further trade liberalisation. UK farmers trying to produce food that meets high environmental and welfare standards face being squeezed out by cheaper, lower quality produce from abroad. Only large intensive farms would be able to compete. If farmers are to have a future in the UK they must be protected from the worst practices of supermarkets, identified by the Competition Commission last year.
Friends of the Earth is urging the Government to act on Lord Haskins recommendation that local food initiatives should be supported. Local food initiatives keep more money in the local economy, create jobs for rural areas and give a better deal to farmers and consumers. Friends of the Earth agrees that farmers should enter into co-operative ventures and wants to see more support from the Regional Development Agencies to enable them to do so. Farmers cannot enter into collaborative marketing initiatives unless the right infrastructure is in place. For example the loss of small abattoirs is a major barrier to more local marketing of meat.
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