The reform of the common agricultural policy (CAP) was the main subject to discuss during the first day of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting held on 28 November. Ministers focused the discussions in particular in direct payments, the single CMO and rural development.

Ministers held three orientation debates within the framework of the common agricultural policy (CAP) reform at the first day of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting. With regard to the first topic discussed, direct payments, as regards greening of direct payments a large number of delegations acknowledged the potential of the approach suggested by the Presidency on the notion of equivalence to the greening measures proposed by the Commission. In July 2012, most of member states also stressed that risk management has become essential for farmers.

The Presidency noted on the sugar quota regime due to expire on 30 September 2015, that a large number of delegations opposed the end of this regime and would like it extended until 2020, while some supported the planned expiry. In addition, together with the Presidency, a large number of delegations considered that it would be more appropriate to await the results of the High Level Group’s evaluation of the existing system of vine planting rights before taking up the subject at Council level.

The Council also highlighted that among the issues on rural development considered in need of further discussion in the Council, the delineation of areas with natural constraints was a priority for a number of member states. Several delegations also raised the topic of risk management in their priorities. While some wished to limit the scope of the measures and are opposed to the income stabilisation tool, some others would like to maintain these measures they considered essential.