Leyen wants to help farmers by drawing down funds earlier

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed that EU Member States get earlier access to part of the agricultural funds from the 2028-2034 budget.

The aim is to help farmers at a time when the EU is trying to persuade Italy and other wavering countries to back a controversial trade deal with South American bloc Mercosur.

Von der Leyen is proposing to allow member states to use up to two-thirds of the funds earmarked for the mid-term review when the initial plan is submitted - around €45 billion.

She sent a letter with the proposal to the states and the European Parliament the day before the extraordinary meeting of EU agriculture ministers.

(reuters, mja)