| answer text |
<p>Farmers have been experiencing difficulties with the recent prolonged wet weather
and are concerned about their ability to meet Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) rules.</p><p>
</p><p>Whilst we have not carried out specific assessments of the environmental impact
of cultivating waterlogged farmland following the wet weather experienced so far this
winter, we encourage farmers to take all the necessary and reasonable steps to protect
their soils. In some cases, we understand that this may result in difficulty meeting
CAP rules, including the ‘three crop rule’. The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) has recently
updated its GOV.UK online guidance on flooding and wet weather so that farmers are
clear on the rules and possible alternative options that will allow them to remain
compliant – including alternatives to the three crop rule. This was put together in
direct response to customers’ and stakeholders’ questions and concerns.</p><p> </p><p>If
they are in doubt, farmers should contact the RPA to discuss possible mitigation measures
where farmers are unsure of the impact that flooding will have on their ability to
comply with greening, or other CAP rules, including whether they should apply for
<em>force majeure</em>.</p><p><em> </em></p><p>We will continue to monitor the situation
and work closely with stakeholders, including farmers, where cases of <em>force majeure</em>
are put forward. We are also exploring how best to provide flexibility and support
farmers affected by the recent wet weather.</p>
|
|
