Whether it has assessed the impact of the loss of set-aside on the implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive and what measures it …

Answered Asked by Robin Harper Green Lodged 13 Aug 2008

The question

To ask the Scottish Executive whether it has assessed the impact of the loss of set-aside on the implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive and what measures it intends to take to ensure the provisions of the directive continue to be met.

The answer

Answered by Richard Lochhead on 2 Sep 2008 · 20 days after it was lodged, on time

The Scottish Government recognises the interaction between set-aside and certain aspects of the EU Water Framework Directive. In particular, buffer areas, especially next to water courses, offer benefits both for wildlife and for water quality. As a provision implementing the Water Framework Directive, the Water Environment (Diffuse Pollution) (Scotland) Regulations 2008 include general binding rules which prohibit tillage within two metres of a watercourse and the application of fertilisers close to watercourses. These rules came into effect in April 2008.
In addition there is an option in the Scotland Rural Development Programme where funding can be applied for in respect of enhanced buffer areas over and above the two-metre margin, where such a measure would have benefits for wildlife or water quality.

In the Official Report

No contribution in the Official Report cites S3W-15502 by reference.