The next item on the agenda is a negative instrument, the Organic Aid (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 1999 (SSI 1999/107). An explanatory memorandum, which outlines the impact of the instrument, has been circulated. Members will recall that at a previous discussion we took the view that, in the main, the European Committee would note Scottish statutory instruments. In this case, the Rural Affairs Committee, which is the lead committee, has not yet reported on the SSI, so I suggest that for the moment we note the instrument and inform the Rural Affairs Committee of that, unless any members have specific comments to make.
Has this SSI already come into force?
Yes.
It is subject to annulment because it is a negative instrument.
Is the organic aid fund part of the structural funds? If it is, do we have a role in examining its effectiveness?
It is doled out by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.
The question of whether it is a structural fund is important as we have a responsibility to ensure that structural funds are being applied properly. Wales has perhaps a 30 per cent coverage from the organic aid fund. If we have to identify the efficacy of the organic aid fund in Scotland, we will have to use the experience of others as a benchmark.
I am under the impression that it is a supplement to agriculture payments, as opposed to a structural fund.
We can find that out. Do we agree to note the instrument?
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