Emphasising the huge support of the public for Britain’s farmers, the team underscored the importance of political parties developing a robust plan for domestic food production.
In his first official meeting as President, Tom Bradshaw met with Defra Secretary Steve Barclay.
They discussed Tom’s priorities, including food security, delivering fairness and the supply chain, and the further action needed by government to respond to devastating flooding experienced by farmers this winter.
Tom also pressed Defra to continue to roll out more detail on the Sustainable Farming Incentive offer for 2024 as quickly as possible.
Read: NFU calls on Defra to publish details on new SFI offer.
Member issues highlighted in the Lords
The NFU President also met Labour’s Shadow Defra Secretary Steve Reed. They discussed the ongoing situation in Wales, alongside the need to ensure fairness in trade deals.
In a meeting with Efra Select Committee Chair Sir Robert Goodwill, who is currently leading an inquiry into supply chain fairness, Tom highlighted the immense pressures confronting agricultural sectors.
Together, they navigated the complexities of SFI implementation, while also scrutinising the government’s strategies for combatting diseases like bluetongue and bTB (bovine tuberculosis).
Later in day, Deputy President David Exwood and Vice President Rachel Hallos joined Tom as they hosted a roundtable in the House of Lords.
They brought to life the challenges facing NFU members on their farms, and highlighted the key role the House of Lords has in delivering supportive policy for NFU members.
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