The single payment scheme after 2013 : new approach-new targets

This study summarizes the developments of the EU Single Payment Scheme, its national implementation by Member States and provides an economic assessment of the scheme. The various proposals made to change the system of direct payments are examined and possible options for reforms are identified. A new system of direct payments for the next Financial Perspective is suggested. It involves a gradual reorientation of direct payments from income support to remuneration for the provision of public goods. Reform proposals for the remaining income support include cofinancing and a move towards a flatter system with a cap related to labour units. This proposal subscribes to subsidiarity, but the increased weight of remuneration for public goods would also call for a stronger harmonisation of the legislative baseline on which the system of EU payments rests.