Rural Scotland People, Prosperity and Partnership

---

The Objectives of Agricultural Policy

The Common Agricultural Policy has had a major impact on UK agricultural policy since the UK joined the European Community in 1973 and the Government seeks to ensure that the development of European Community policies has due regard to the needs and circumstances of Scottish farmers and crofters. The Government's main policy objectives for Scottish agriculture within the CAP are:

• to improve the competitive efficiency of agriculture in Scotland and assist its adjustment to changing market conditions

• to ensure a proper balance between agriculture and other rural development interests including conservation of the environment

• to maintain and develop assistance for those farming and crofting in marginal conditions