Future of off-road sport in UK under threat

[Coldkiwi]

meddling buggers. good to hear the MCIA is picking up its sword for battle!

[Bob]

DEFRA (The Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) has backed down on the issue of off-road sport and the farmland Single Payment Scheme (SPS) subsidies.

On behalf of the MCI and other motorsport groups, the Land Access and Recreational Association (LARA) had commenced legal action against DEFRA on May 13th. Within a few hours of papers being issued, DEFRA opted to change the SPS rules in line with demands from the industry and motorsport lobby.

Lord Bach, Minister for Sustainable Farming and Food, said: "DEFRA received a number of representations from motor sport interests following the issue of new guidance on 29 March.

"Having considered these, I am happy to announce the publication of updated guidance which now provides for motor sports to take place on up to 28 days during farmers' 10-month eligibility period on land used in support of 2005 Single Payment claims. Guidance for 2006 and beyond will be reviewed in the light of experience of this first year of the Single Payment Scheme."

To everyone that put their name to the petition against the new rules, well done for doing your bit to help.

[Motu]

Phew! Close shave there.....