Concern as Britain demands rewrite of CAP policies

EU leaders gathering in Brussels today are more divided than they have been in years, it has been claimed today.

Almost the entire Union is demanding an end to Britain's financial rebate leaving the UK isolated at the talks.

The British government is demanding France and Germany rewrite the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to reduce subsidies in return.

Colm Markey of Macra na Feirme says if that happens farmers will lose all confidence in the EU.

Speaking today, Mr Markey said: "It’s the second time because back in 1999 there was an agreement set up then and it was only a mid-term review that led to the current changes.

"If the EU can't stand over these commitments everyone will lose our commitment, it's not just a farmers issue."