Food and farming can power Britain post-Brexit, says NFU President
Now is the opportunity to change and reshape agriculture policy and future-proof British food production, according to NFU President Meurig Raymond.
Leading the opening address at the NFU Conference, being held in Birmingham today (Tuesday 20 February), Mr Raymond will tell 1,500 delegates and attendees, including Defra Secretary of State Michael Gove, that the nation needs a good Brexit - one which means British farming and food production builds on the £112 billion it already contributes to the economy and supporting jobs for almost 4 million people, has access to a competent and reliable workforce to harvest our fresh produce and sees Britain’s self-sufficiency in food increase rather than decrease.
On the vital role British food and farming can play in the country’s future, Mr Raymond will also highlight farming’s story as a responsible long-term steward of the countryside and as an acknowledged world leader in animal welfare.
“Food is at the heart of the British countryside; it’s at the heart of the British economy. British farming produces a safe, affordable and high quality supply of food,” said Mr Raymond.
“British farmers want to be the first supplier of choice, servicing every price point and serving every plate, feeding Britain with food produced to a high standard, independently inspected to ensure its integrity. We have the climate and soil, we have the knowledge and desire, and we have the Red Tractor.”
Read the full article here...