Subsidies in EU

Franz Fischler, Commissioner responsible for Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries, was in Spain to discuss the Commission's proposals on the mid-term review of the common agricultural policy (CAP). He explained why it is in Spanish farmers' interest to adapt farm policy now: "Why not wait until after 2006? With EUR 6 billion in farm subsidies, Spain is the second-largest beneficiary of the CAP after France and clearly a net recipient. So Spanish farmers in particular have a major stake in the continuance of a strong, coherent and credible common agricultural policy. But this is precisely what we stand to lose if we do not act now and make the necessary changes. The CAP lacks credibility with European taxpayers, as recent opinion polls have shown. Sitting and waiting would be the worst possible solution for our farmers: ...