Dual attack on NVZs
Dual attack on NVZs
TWO farming organisations have launched a joint attack on the governments proposals to increase the land area under Nitrate Vulnerable Zone restrictions.
In a letter to DEFRA secretary Margaret Beckett, the Country Land and Business Association and the NFU describe the proposals, which form part of the EU nitrates directive, as a "hammer blow to the industry".
CLA president Edward Greenwell and NFU president Ben Gill said government proposals would cost English farmers up to £100m.
NFU vice-president Michael Paske added: "Scotland has designated just 18% of land as an NVZ, with Wales opting for just 3%. So why on earth will it be 80-100% in England?"
He said a more justifiable figure would be 50% and confirmed the NFU was considering legal action.
Mr Paske also said the proposals meant some farmers are facing a bill of £5000. *
government literature that suggested the average cost to farmers would be just £170, was misleading and naïve.
"The extra paperwork alone will cost in excess of £170/year. Some farmers are facing a bill of £5000."