Work of Defra: health and harmony inquiry: a response from the British Ecological Society to the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs select committee.
Abstract
This paper presents the response of the British Ecological Society to the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs select committee wherein the following questions were addressed: (i) what will the consequences of the withdrawal of Direct Payments be?; (ii) the Government plans to base the new policy on public money being used to pay for public goods. To what extent do you agree with this approach? What public goods should be supported?; (iii) how should the new policy based on supporting public goods be coordinated and delivered?; (iv) the consultation indicates a transition period will be needed. How long should this last and what lessons can be learnt from previous implementation of agricultural policy?; (v) in which areas should the Government seek agreement with the Devolved Institutions to ensure a common approach across the UK?