DEFRA confirms extension of cross compliance exemption for waterlogged land

DEFRA has confirmed that the exemption from the cross compliance standard which prohibits the use of motorised vehicles and the carrying out of mechanical operations on waterlogged soils (GAEC 3) has been extended until 25th October 2008 (the original exemption announced on 10th September was due to end on 4th October). This is as a result of excessive rainfall which has prevented farmers from harvesting crops. This extension to the exemption will be kept under review by DEFRA. Further information is available on DEFRA's website.