Folias (PPE-DE), in writing. – (EL) It is hardly surprising, given how the new common agricultural policy is taking shape in the run up to enlargement, that the rural population in the EU, and in Greece in particular, is gripped by anxiety, wondering whether they will be able to continue in their chosen profession, a profession which is so necessary and of such capital importance to the European economy and European society.

And why? Because overall subsidies in the agricultural sector will increase by 8% between 2006 and 2013, in the form of a minimal inflation provision.

I should like to set this disturbing increase against a number of other post-enlargement increases in the EU, so as to give a more in-depth picture of future developments.

Increase in Member States 65% (from 15 to 25)

Increase in Population 25% (from 370 to 470 million)

Increase in Rural land 43% (from 140 million to 200 million hectares)

Increase in Cultivable land 55% (from 77 million to 120 million hectares)

Increase in Farmers 165% (from 6 to 16 million)

And in return: I repeat, total agricultural subsidies will increase by a mere 8% up to 2013, not counting the integration of Bulgaria and Romania scheduled for 2007.

What, one may ask, can our farmers expect ...

(Statement submitted in accordance with Rule 120 of the Rules of Procedure)