How Cross Compliance contributes to Scotland’s Vision for Agriculture

Scotland’s Vision for Agriculture is to be a global leader in sustainable and regenerative agriculture. The aims of the vision include producing high-quality food, protecting and improving animal health and welfare, facilitating the restoration of nature, climate mitigation and adaptation, and enabling rural communities to thrive. 

This report examines how Cross Compliance contributes to Scotland’s Vision for Agriculture, and whether introducing greater ambition will support Scotland in achieving its goals.  

The Cross Compliance requirements are a set of rules that enforce laws around animal and plant health as well as sustainable agricultural practices. All farmers and crofters in Scotland who receive income support under the Basic Payment Scheme must observe Cross Compliance requirements.  

The report explores the differences between the Cross Compliance rules in Scotland and EU Member States with a similar policy, and analyses the strengths, weaknesses and macro-environmental considerations of three opportunities which could be implemented to better align with Scotland’s Vision for Agriculture.  

Findings  

The researchers found that the contribution of Cross Compliance to the five outcomes of the Vision for Agriculture are uneven, with stronger alignment to environmental and animal welfare outcomes, and more limited support for thriving agricultural businesses and a just transition. There was limited evidence in the literature on the implementation and outcome of more ambitious Cross Compliance approaches. 

The authors identified four overarching considerations relevant to any development of the current rules to better deliver on the Vision’s outcomes:  

• Balancing environmental ambition with profitability 
• Developing a strong monitoring and evidence base, including robust data to justify changes and increase the acceptability of policy adjustments 
• Co designing rules with farmers, crofters and land managers 
• Increasing support, training and communication 

The research also emphasised the importance of considering any revisions to Cross Compliance within the wider Scottish agricultural policy framework. 

While this report is not an exhaustive analysis of possible improvements nor an indication of future policy changes, is does identify clear potential to strengthen the Cross Compliance rules to support the outcomes of the Vision for Agriculture. More evidence is needed as well as holistic consideration of the wider agricultural and environmental policies. 

For further information, please read the report. 

If you require the report in an alternative format, such as a Word document, please contact info@climatexchange.org.uk or 0131 651 4783.