Written question asked by Baroness Byford (Conservative), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Rooker (Labour) on Wednesday, 25 July 2007.

Rural Payments Agency

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:With reference to the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs publication, Set-Aside Handbook and Guidance for England—2007 update, why the RPA will apply area penalties to any farmer who has used the 2005 baseline offered under paragraph 1, but has calculated too low an area.

Answer: The EU regulations governing the single payment scheme require farmers to manage as set-aside sufficient land to support the number of set-aside entitlements they hold. Where they have not managed as set-aside sufficient eligible land, no payment can be made on the set-aside entitlements that have not been used. Under the terms of the EU regulations area penalties may also be applicable depending on the size of the shortfall in set-aside.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 4999; 694 c99-100WA
Session: 2006-07
Subjects: Agriculture Subsidies Common agricultural policy Set-aside schemes
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk