EU opens public debate on its agricultural policy, the prelude to a major reform in 2013.
The commission announced plans this week to overhaul its agricultural policy in line with the EU's new long-term economic strategy.
In a speech at the European parliament, agriculture commissioner Dacian Cioloş, said the current policy faces major challenges, including climate change, problems with food availability and pressures on resources and rural economies.
Changes will be proposed toward the end of this year, after the commission has reviewed the public comments. They would take effect after the current programme of funding expires in 2013.

See more on the Commissions website at: http://ec.europa.eu/news/agriculture/100413_en.htm