EU waters down pollution targets and rethinks pesticide plans in bid to quell farmers’ protests – Europe live

Move by Ursula von der Leyen welcomed by farmers after weeks of protests across Europe

Reacting to Ursula von der Leyen's announcement that she would suggest withdrawing a proposal on reducing pesticides, the European farming lobby, Copa and Cogeca, said:

This morning's announcement by President Von der Leyen on the withdrawal of the SUR proposal puts an end to an impasse: this top-down proposal stemming from the Farm2Fork logic was poorly designed, poorly evaluated, poorly financed, and offered little alternatives to farmers.

The European Commission is finally acknowledging that the approach was not the right one, and is thereby reinforcing the credibility and importance of the ongoing strategic dialogue.

We have always said that it would be irresponsible to jeopardise European food production in the face of current crises through unrealistic requirements and bureaucracy.

We are ready at any time to work together with the Commission for effective climate protection and a secure food supply.