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LYMEC, the European Liberal Youth this morning announces our dismay at yet another hand out from the European Parliament to the agricultural sector. It has been reported that the Agriculture Committee has agreed to the Commission’s proposal for farmers to receive extra payment if they work in a way that protects the environment, regardless of quality or quantity of produce.

Although LYMEC supports measures that support the environment, we are highly concerned that those farmers who are already paid an extra subsidy for “green activities” will be allowed to keep this, on top of the new proposed extra allowance. In this way, they will receive a double payment for essentially doing the same thing.

At a time of economic austerity across the continent and when the EU’s budget is rightly being scrutinised, it seems wholly irresponsible for the Parliament to sanction this waste and duplicity. LYMEC also has doubts as to the true effects this would have on the environment, and thinks that investment in green technology is a more sustainable and sensible policy.