We are approaching the decision on set-aside replacement that has cropped up a few times in this blog. We aren't hopeful of a good environmental choice from Defra - rumour has it that the NFU 'voluntary' approach may be the chosen option.
However, the media seem to be waking up to the peculiarity of the consultation process and how odd a decision it would be if Hilary Benn opted for something that is vague, has little chance of success and will cost the taxpayer a lot of money! Hooray! To opt for the 'voluntary' scheme (where farmers volunteer to take your money!) would be more wacko than the late lamented Jacko!
We are expecting an article by the distinguished environmental columnist Geoffrey Lean in tomorrow's Daily Telegraph.
Mark, I agree that a voluntary approach would not be good for either Britain's birds or taxpayers. When will DEFRA make a final decision? I wrote a comment piece for the Guardian recently on the cuckoo and mentioned the set-aside debate. Its at
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2009/may/30/cuckoo-decline-environment
Best wishes, Nick