A group of MPs today called on Theresa May to take action to safeguard the countryside and farming after Brexit.
Members of the Commons environmental audit committee warned protections could be weaker once the UK leaves the EU unless steps are taken in advance.
They said the plan to copy EU legislation into domestic law with the Great Repeal Bill would not be sufficient as there was a risk it would not be updated and could be eroded.
And they urged the Conservative government to introduce a new Environmental Protection Act during the withdrawal negotiations to maintain exiting standards.
Chairwoman Mary Creagh said: “Protections for Britain’s wildlife and special places currently guaranteed under European law could end up as ‘zombie legislation’ even with the Great Repeal Bill.
“The government should safeguard protections for Britain’s wildlife and special places in a new Environmental Protection Act.”
She also highlighted the “significant risks” to UK farming, including a loss of subsidies, tariffs on farm exports and increased competition from countries with weaker food, animal welfare and environmental standards.
The Labour MP added: “The government must not trade away these key protections as we leave the EU. It should also give clarity over any future farm subsidies.”
Last year, Chancellor Philip Hammond said the Treasury would match EU direct subsidy payments after Brexit – up to 2020.
The current level of basic CAP funding (Pillar 1) will be met until then as part of the transition to new domestic arrangements.
However, it is not clear what will happen after that point.
The committee said any new farm subsidies introduced to replace CAP should provide a better balance between support to agriculture and environmental protection.
It also said they should have clearly defined objectives, such as the promotion of biodiversity, preventing flooding and storing carbon rather than simply providing income support to farmers.
Ms Creagh added: “It was concerning that the environment secretary gave my committee no reassurance that there would be subsidies for farmers after we leave the EU.”
A UK Government spokeswoman said:
“The UK has a long history of wildlife and environmental protection and we are committed to safeguarding and improving these, securing the best deal for Britain as we leave the EU.”
