With 2024 bringing its fair share of challenges, it’s difficult to see how some of these will not spill over into the new year. However, I strongly believe that the NFU National Poultry Board is well positioned to continue supporting the work of our poultry members and those in the wider sector.
I was proud to be re-elected as National Poultry Board chair in March 2024 and welcomed the new vice-chair Will Raw. We both complement each other’s skillsets, which is positive.
Together with the board representatives we have reviewed our priorities, which are now centred around five main pillars: fairness in the supply chain, environmental performance, skills and labour, animal health and welfare and productivity.
Capitalising on opportunities
Alongside the ongoing challenges of AI (avian influenza), high input costs and barriers to planning permission, there are opportunities which we must capitalise on.
Securing the next stage of Defra’s fairness in the supply chain review for the egg sector, ensuring the development of assurance scheme standards is based on relevant scientific evidence and supporting members in various high profile legal cases are just a few key examples of the areas we have been working hard on.
“MP engagement has always been something I’ve promoted heavily and I know that this will remain a critical element of our lobbying strategy moving into 2025.”
NFU Poultry Board chair James Mottershead
Lobbying to ensure a thriving sector
A new government was always going to be a reset point but I can’t say they’ve started off on a good foot.
MP engagement has always been something I’ve promoted heavily and I know that this will remain a critical element of our lobbying strategy moving into 2025.
In fact, we already have plans for key actions needed from the government to be shared in our wider lobbying work to help ensure poultry producers are able to thrive and not just survive.
As I travel up and down the country meeting members, I am always impressed with the enthusiasm and professionalism that I see.
Despite turbulent times poultry people remain dedicated and I look forward to continuing to represent them in the year ahead.
