The claim that farmers will be worst off in a post-Brexit economy (‘Plans bad for tenants’ – Westmorland Gazette 1/3/18) is just sour grapes from Mr Farron who does not want to see us leave the EU, as I believe farmers will actually benefit from these plans, especially as they won’t be bogged down by bureaucratic red tape.
As a farmer, I understand there may be concerns from landowners over the plans, but agree with the Environment Secretary when he says that the Common Agricultural Policy, which involves paying landowners according to the amount of land they own, does not work and can often see those on smaller farms losing out.
These proposals, which Defra is giving farmers five years to put in place, will help those smaller farms thrive, as well as protecting our amazing countryside and wildlife.
We are leaving the EU and these plans will help maximise the opportunities for farmers once that has happened. I for one will welcome plans to simplify inspections and promote and preserve the amazing scenery we have here in South Lakeland, while at the same time promoting our fantastic produc
Yours,
Councillor James Airey
Conservative Group Leader
Cumbria County Council