Huw Merriman MP (Bexhill & Battle) has met with the NFU, discussing how government could help farmers continue to feed the nation and care for the countryside after Brexit.—National Farmers Union, 20 February 2017
The meeting took place last Friday (February 17) at Montague, Hankham, thanks to host farmer Martin Hole.
Farmers set out the positive contribution of agriculture to society and detailed four principles which British food production needs in a post-Brexit Britain:
- The best possible access to trade with Europe
- Access to a competent and reliable workforce
- Government policy recognition of agriculture as a key industry in a post-Brexit Britain
- A period of transition to allow farm businesses to adapt to any changes to trading relationships or agricultural policy
NFU South East assistant adviser Eleanor Batley, who attended the meeting, said: ““There was a detailed and constructive discussion on the future of our industry after Brexit. Besides a discussion around general farm support, we also talked about support for farmers caring for the farmed environment, particular in areas such as the Pevensey Levels.
“During a brief farm walk, we talked about local issues, including opportunities to educate young people about farming and food production.”
Farming underpins the UK’s food and drink sector which is worth £108billion. Almost three quarters (72%) of agricultural exports go to the EU with some sectors being heavily dependent on trade with the rest of Europe.
The NFU is the voice of British farming and provides professional representation and services to its farmer and grower members.
PICTURE: From left: NFU member Bill Gower, Huw Merriman MP with Martin and Gundrada Hole, hosts, of Montague, Hankham
