On 27 November Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee has released its report on the Scrutiny of the Agriculture Bill.
Louise Sampson, Advocacy Officer of the National Trust [Alliance member], responded to the report pointing out that “The Bill provides powers to the Government, but places few duties on Ministers”, especially on the environmental land management scheme. However, the National Trust welcomes the inclusion of “protection and enhancement of the historic environment” in the new system of agricultural support on the principle of public money for public goods.
Other concerns relate to: funding priorities, future trade deals, the necessity to ensure both fair food production and environmental protection.