Farmers fail to reap benefits of EU funding

UK - British farmers and food processors are failing to exploit the opportunities offered by the EU to promote and add value to their food, according to rural business leaders and MPs.

The regular allocations of European funding to promote food and produce goes largely untapped by UK farmers and processors, and British produce is some of the least well protected under EU designation of origin rules, with just 29 registered products including Cornish clotted cream and Scottish beef.

France has 140 products on the register, while Italy has 150. The Country Land and Business Association launched a campaign to raise awareness of the benefits of EU protection status this summer, and has mustered over 100 signatures to an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons, calling on the government to promote the schemes.

Shadow agriculture minister Oliver Letwin said: "DEFRA estimates that EU protection adds 18% to the value of a food.

It helps protect famous foods, but it also encourages consumer awareness of niche artisan products."

Source: FWi

11 November 2005