Original version

BBC Radio 4 LW

Farming Today

Magazines & Reviews

Factual: Science & Nature: Nature & Environment

The latest news about food, farming and the countryside

BBC Radio 4 FM

Farming Today: 06/01/2012

06/01/2012

BBC Radio 4 - Farming Today, 06/01/2012

The Oxford Farming Conference debates the benefits of the EU.

Charlotte Smith asks delegates at the Oxford Farming Conference if British agriculture could thrive outside the EU.

At a debate in the Oxford Union the motion was passed that 'British agriculture could thrive outside Europe'. It was organised as part of this year's Oxford Farming Conference which brings together hundreds of farmers, food processors, politicians and experts to discuss some of the biggest challenges for the industry. Currently, agriculture accounts for the largest share of of the EU's 400 billion budget. It's estimated that in the UK, each tax payer pays £107 a year into the pot, of which £3.5 billion is paid back to farmers to keep the land in a workable state and to follow basic environmental measures. Though, in the debating hall, the idea won out Charlotte Smith hears that for many farmers being part of Europe is a business necessity. The RSPB says European environmental legislation has helped secure the future of farmland species and she talks to some delegates who explain the pros and cons of being an 'European' farmer. 

Presented: Charlotte Smith; Producer: Angela Frain.

BBC Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Farming Today

06/01/2012

Genres

Formats

Brand

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4