European Parliament
José Manuel Fernandes  (PPE ),
in writing.
(PT)
The reform of the common agricultural policy, which introduced a policy of quotas for milk production, has not had the desired effect, and in a time of short supply, we have farmers who have invested in the acquisition of quotas. With the announced abolition of these quotas – to which certain Member States are opposed – it is imperative to adopt regulatory measures that ensure the normal functioning of the sector and guarantee a fair income for producers, so that they do not give up farming. Although I am aware that this legislation will not solve all the problems faced by farmers, I voted for this report on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Council Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 as regards contractual relations in the milk and milk products sector, as I believe it strengthens the position of farmers when negotiating with distributors, as they can negotiate 33% of national production directly. In addition, Member States may opt for a European contract with a minimum validity of six months, either negotiated on an individual basis or by cooperatives.

