Is the grass always ‘greener’ on the other side? A focus on key element of the EU’s new CAP

A short opinion piece for October 2023 edition of Farm North East (editor Eddie Gillanders). As the journal is print only we have permission to publish the article electronically. The article looks at the key features of the new Common Agricultural Policy within the EU and specifically the compulsory elements within it (including redistributive support, new cross compliance measures, Areas facing Natural and other Constraints replacement of Less Favoured Area support). The article reminds readers that Scottish agriculture is not alone in evolving - and all over the UK and EU those in receipt of agricultural support payments are now being expected to deliver more for the environment.