Written Question · S3W-18812 · Session 3
Whether it will bring forward plans to reform the agricultural subsidy appeals procedure and, if so, when.
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive whether it will bring forward plans to reform the agricultural subsidy appeals procedure and, if so, when.
The answer
I set up an independent review of the EU Agricultural Subsidy appeals procedure in November 2007. Following extensive consultation and assessment of the current process I received the Report A review of the European Union Agricultural Subsidy Appeals Procedure in Scotland on 4 November which I have now carefully considered.
I have accepted sixteen of the seventeen recommendations made by the review team led by former NFU President John Kinnaird including the principle of an independent appeals procedure.
Work has now begun on implementing the recommendations we are able to accept. I have asked officials to explore how an independent appeals process can be best delivered and to examine the options including extending the remit of an existing organisation or by part of government.
I plan to introduce changes as soon as possible in 2009.
I have accepted sixteen of the seventeen recommendations made by the review team led by former NFU President John Kinnaird including the principle of an independent appeals procedure.
Work has now begun on implementing the recommendations we are able to accept. I have asked officials to explore how an independent appeals process can be best delivered and to examine the options including extending the remit of an existing organisation or by part of government.
I plan to introduce changes as soon as possible in 2009.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S3W-18812 by reference.