Set-Aside Derogation Granted back
UK - Following a request by NFU Scotland, the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Richard Lochhead, has granted a derogation to allow farmers to use set-aside land to graze livestock. Such activity is normally prohibited under EU rules between January 15 and August 31
12 July 2007
1 minute read
NFUS requested the derogation on the back of extremely wet weather which has hampered the cutting of hay and silage for feed and has damaged pasture.
Those farmers wishing to use the derogation should email or write to their local Scottish Executive Area office explaining their need to use the land.
Welcoming the news of the derogation, NFUS Vice President Nigel Miller said:
“We’re grateful to Mr Lochhead for using the flexibility available. We have had members on the phone hugely concerned at the impact of the wet weather on their ability to feed their livestock, hence our request for the derogation.
“The increasingly unpredictable nature of the weather means this kind of flexibility in EU legislation is becoming more and more important. Last year we needed a derogation because of very dry weather and this year because the ground has been sodden.
“Farmers will welcome the recognition of the difficulties on the ground and the speed with which the Cabinet Secretary and his officials have acted.”
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