The report, written by the Farming Regulation Task Force, contains more than 200 recommendations to cut unnecessary red-tape from UK farming, and includes a chapter on better regulation for the CAP.

Maeve Whyte, Director of the NFU Brussels office, said many of the core messages were in line with NFU policy.

"The report urges policy makers to devise a CAP that is proportionate, risk-based and reduces paperwork and inspections. It also calls on ministers to oppose a ‘cap’ on direct payments and ensure cross-compliance measures are focused on outcomes rather than process.

"We need to tackle the EU regulatory burden on farm businesses and so welcome these recommendations," said Ms Whyte.

"This report couldn’t come at a better time as Europe is currently redesigning the CAP post-2013. If we are going to create an environment in which farm businesses can thrive, EU farm ministers need to think very carefully about how to promote, rather than stifle, competitiveness which is why reports like this are important."

The Farming Regulation Task Force was announced by agriculture minister Jim Paice at Cereals 2010. Former NFU Director General Richard Macdonald led the group and presented his report this May. The task force report and a summary of recommendations can be found by clicking here.