A clear majority of European consumers think that giving more funding to rural development, as well as paying farmers directly, instead of subsidising production, is a positive development. The concept of cross compliance is also supported.
The public stressed the vital role of agriculture and rural areas in the EU. Almost 9 in every 10 (89%) citizens said that these are key issues for the future of Europe. This view went on to be expressed in opinions on the EU agricultural budget. Around 6 in 10 people (58%) feel that this budget should either stay the same or increase over the coming years, compared to just 18% who think it should decrease.
EU citizens also highlighted that food prices have become a key issue over the last year, with 43% mentioning that ensuring reasonable food prices should be a policy priority.
European attitudes to the environment
EU citizens also highlighted a number of concerns in a recent survey on the environment. Notable results included the following:
o Pollution from farming and GM are well down the list of issues that people worry about when it comes to the environment.
o 21% of people are buying locally in response to environmental issues
o 73% of people surveyed felt that public authorities should purchase more environmentally friendly products, even if they are more expensive
o 58% of people declared that they are opposed to the use of GMOs while around a fifth (21%) supports their use. A further 9% say they have never heard of GMOs.