Setback for reform

Those wanting reform of the CAP have suffered a setback after 20 member states signed a declaration opposing radical reform of the policy: Reform . France was particularly pleased that Poland and Romania signed up given that accession states have been pressing for an eastward redistribution of funds.

The countries that refused to sign up were the reform camp of the UK, Denmark and Sweden; the three Baltic states (hardly big recipients of largesse); and Greece (which may have to do something with the current austerity package).

Although the UK acknowledged that the declaration was a setback in hopes for reform, budgetary pressures may yet have an impact on the final package.