The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee is set to invite members of the public to inform debate on the future reform of the Common Agricultural Policy.

A public hearing will be held at the Royal Show at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on July 4.

This will form part of the committee’s enquiry into A Vision for Common Agricultural Policy, a government document published in December 2005. The report is intended to stimulate discussion by describing plans for European agricultural reform over the next 10 to 15 years.

The committee will be hearing from witnesses at Westminster, including the National Farmers’ Union, the Tenant Farmers Association, the Country Land and Business Association and the Natural England Partnership.

The key issues will include the commitment to UK food production, the treatment of farmers across the EU, the international implications of reform and the environmental consequences of the proposals.

Members of the public who have strong views on the subject can apply to take part in the session. The format of the meeting will allow for up to 10 people to make a five-minute presentation to the committee, with time for questions.

Those who would like to be considered should send a short summary of the issues that they would like to raise, with contact details and information on their background and experience to CapVision, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, Committee Office, House of Commons, SW1P 3JA or capvision@parliament.uk.

The deadline for applications is June 5, 2006.

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