Labour to pursue CAP reform

 THE LABOUR Party has launched its election manifesto with a pledge to press for further reform of the CAP, starting with the sugar regime.

Labour are also committed to pushing for an end to agricultural export subsidies by 2010.
 
Launched on Wed (Apr 13), the manifesto concentrates on the issues Labour considers to be the most important to its election campaign.

Unlike the other main parties Labour has included its pledges for the environment and rural affairs in its main manifesto rather than launch a dedicated manifesto at an earlier date.
 
The primary areas of focus are the economy, education, crime and the National Health Service.  

“We will press for the conclusion of an ambitious trade deal that will completely open markets to exports from poorer countries; for further reform of rich countries‘ agricultural subsidies, including the CAP and a 2010 timetable to end agricultural export subsidies,” says the 2005 manifesto.
 
There is a commitment to introduce a policy for schools, hospitals and government offices to consider local sourcing of fresh produce and an assurance to promote biomass, bio-fuels and non-food crops. 

Labour would continue to promote environmental stewardship of the countryside with a vow to tackle diffuse water pollution.
 
If re-elected Labour would introduce the Animal WThe elfare Bill “as soon as possible in the new Parliament”.
 
The environment and climate change feature strongly throughout the 112-page document with Labour giving a firm commitment to allow local authorities the power to tackle litter, graffiti and fly-tipping.