What you need to know

European Commission announced plans to reform Common Agricultural Policy post-2013 on 12 October
Defra supports the principles underpinning the reforms but believes they can go further. We encourage you to respond to the public consultation on the proposals which Defra will launch in November.

Free soil testing kits being offered to farmers in the South West
Kits are being distributed by the Soils for Profit Project as part of an initiative to provide advice on soil management and shows ways in which farm profits and the environment can benefit.

All VAT businesses to file VAT returns online from April 2012 (PDF)
It is likely to be mandatory for all businesses, not just those with over £100K turnover, to file returns online. Help and guidance on moving your returns online is available on HMRC’s website.

What you may have missed

Animal disease – new outbreaks overseas and prevention
When Defra becomes aware of a new notifiable animal disease outbreak in another country, we assess the risk they may pose to the UK and whether further safeguards are needed. Twelve assessments have been published since April for diseases such as Rabies, Foot and Mouth Disease and bird flu. Animal keepers also have a key role to play in notifying the veterinary authorities of any suspicion of disease, maintaining good on-farm biosecurity, and adhering to the EU-wide ban on swill feeding. Guidance is available.

Defra approves GM wheat trial
Defra has granted consent to Rothamsted Research to conduct a research trial in 2012 and 2013 on GM wheat that has been genetically modified to resist aphids, a pest in wheat crops.

Find out about Defra’s current formal written consultations