Ministers must act, warns watchdog

18 October 2001



Ministers must act, warns watchdog

By FWi staff

THE governments rural watchdog has warned ministers not to ignore two foot-and-mouth recovery plans unveiled on Thursday (18 October).

Countryside Agency deputy chairwoman Pam Warhurst urged ministers to implement proposals made by Lord Haskins and the Rural Task Force.

“Both these reports make sensible recommendations,” she said. “We expect the government to act quickly and not bury them.”

More short-term help is needed if rural businesses including farms are to survive the winter, Ms Warhurst said.

The Countryside Agency agreed with Lord Haskins that it was wrong to close paths wholesale in response to outbreaks of foot-and-mouth.

Ms Warhurst said: “Action of that kind has done more harm than good.

“With foot and mouth disease seemingly under control, it is tempting for Government to think it has done its job.”

Funds should be focused on marketing the countryside and improving its infrastructure now, ready for a relaunch next spring, said Ms Warhurst.

“World events may have an impact on visitors returning to our countryside next year and on how much they spend,” she added.

“The Treasury needs to invest in rural areas now to save paying out later, repairing the social and economic damage of widespread business failures.”

• Haskins unveils rural recovery plan, FWi, 18 October, 2001
• Short-term rural help critical, FWi, 18 October, 2001
• Implement recovery plan now – NFU, FWi 18 October, 2001