France Tells UK To Stay Away From EU Farm Spending Talks

France has declined to invite the U.K. government to a meeting aimed at building protection for European Union farm spending, saying it would be willing to discuss the meeting’s conclusions, the Financial Times reports on its Web site.

“It is normal that states that share the same ambition for the CAP [Common Agricultural Policy] can come together to reflect on its future,” French Agriculture Minister Bruno Le Maire is quoted as saying.

“France is the biggest agricultural power in Europe and it is not illegitimate for it to reflect on this and associate all other member states that want a strong CAP. If the U.K. ever wanted to join us and sign an appeal for a strong CAP, it would be welcome.”

CME Group / FT