In this week’s edition
- Kendall criticises ‘unacceptable’ TB comments
- Milk Link announces milk price increase.
- EU must act on illegal eggs, say MPs
- Westmorland County Show: Thursday 8th September, Crooklands, Cumbria
- How new planning laws will impact horticulture: Thursday 8th September, Skelmersdale
- Next Generation Policy Forum
- Septic Tanks
- Two new farmer guides launched to help manage slurry and manure
- Organic production in decline in the North West
- Members sought for North West Regional Flood & Coastal Committee
- WHAT’S ON?
Kendal criticises 'unacceptable' TB comments
The NFU President has written a formal letter of complaint to the Defra Secretary of State after an appearance by Natural England’s executive director for Science on the BBC Farming Today programme. Peter Kendall sent the letter to Caroline Spelman after Andrew Wood appeared on the programme on Thursday August 25 to discuss Natural England’s formal response to government proposals on badger controls. Speaking about the letter, Mr Kendall said: “It was already bad enough that Natural England had submitted an extremely unhelpful response to the consultation on issuing licences to cull badgers. But for an official of the agency charged with delivering government policy to appear on the radio arguing against government policy is in my view unacceptable. The ultimate aim, to eradicate bTB, will require concerted working from all parties. I have asked the Secretary of State to ensure that all government agencies work towards this objective.”
Milk Link announces milk price increase
Milk Link is to increase its Member milk price from 1st September by 1ppl for both manufacturing and liquid schedules. This means that Milk Link’s standard litre Member price for both manufacturing and liquid milk will now be 28ppl.
EU must act on illegal eggs, say MPs
The European Commission is sleepwalking into a potential commercial disaster over animal welfare regulations that could result in unfair competition for UK egg producers, warn MPs in a recent report. New rules, which come into force on 1 January 2012, are designed to improve conditions for caged hens. They are the first piece of EU legislation to ban a specific method of food production on animal welfare grounds. In a report examining the Welfare of Laying Hens Directive, the UK Parliament’s Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee warns that around one third of Europe’s egg production will not comply with the new welfare standards when this legislation comes into force. Launching the report, Committee chair Anne McIntosh MP said, “The European Commission has just not woken up to the impact that non-compliance with this legislation will have on egg producers in the UK and across Europe. UK egg producers have spent around £400 million to improve conditions for laying hens. That money will be wasted and UK producers will be left at a competitive disadvantage if cheaper, illegal and non-compliant shell eggs and egg products can be imported to the UK from other European countries.” The report calls on the UK Government to press for an intra-community trade ban on the export of non-compliant eggs and egg products and for The EU Commission to initiate infraction proceedings against Member States where caged egg producers remain non-compliant once the Directive comes into force.
Westmorland County Show: Thursday 8th September, Crooklands, Cumbria
One of Britain’s oldest and Cumbria's biggest livestock shows. Featuring cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, also horses, poultry, hounds, dogs and rare breeds, together with alpaca classes. Not forgetting Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling, W.I., Learning for Life and Craft Marquees, with over 350+ trade stands and the area’s largest local products food hall with special demonstrators and Celebrity Chefs. The Westmorland County Show is Cumbria’s premiere “shop window”. Come and see us at the NFU Marquee at Stand A6, close to the main ring. The Addington Fund is also inviting members to breakfast of coffee & bacon butties at 8-9.30am in the Wedding Marquee, Row F. To do so RSVP by Monday 5th Sept - Email: enquiries@addingtonfund.org.uk, Tel: 01926 620 135. The show takes place 8.00am until 5.30pm. Just off Junction 36 of the M6 at Lane Farm, Crooklands, Milnthorpe, Cumbria, LA7 7NH. Visit www.westmorlandshow.co.uk.
How new planning laws will impact horticulture: Thursday 8th Sept, Skelmersdale
ALL farmers & growers are welcome at this open meeting of the NFU North West Horticulture & Potatoes Board. Our guest speaker will be planning guru, Ivan Moss from NFU Head Office. Ivan will be explaining the new National Planning Policy Framework and how this could impact on agriculture & horticulture businesses in the North West. It’s also a chance to discuss other issues such as farm buildings, polytunnels, underground cables, gypsy & traveller sites or to simply put your questions to the expert on all things planning-related. There will also be an update on the Agricultural Wages Board and the progress of the Grocery Code Adjudicator. Meeting takes place at 7:30pm on Thursday 8th September at NFU Offices, 1 Moss Lane View, Skelmersdale, WN8 9TL. For more info or to reserve your place, contact the North West Office – Tel: 01695 554 929, Email: aarun.naik@nfu.org.uk.
What for the future of livestock sector – Tuesday 13th September
Cheshire livestock farmers will have the chance to listen to the views of 3 of the industry’s leading lights in September when NFU Livestock Board Chairman Alistair Mackintosh, Livestock Auctioneers Association Chairman, Gwyn Williams and EBLEX Regional Manager, Clive Brown, address an open meeting for livestock farmers at Chelford Auction Market. While 2011 has seen both cattle and sheep prices strengthen considerably there have also been unprecedented rise in costs, particularly fuel and feed. At the same time there has been a change in what consumers are purchasing as they move away from more expensive to cheaper cuts of meat as increases in the retail price of meat kick in. Alistair and Gwyn will give outline their own thoughts on the future direction of the industry, covering issues such as sheep EiD, sheep carcase splitting and Bovine TB before highlighting areas where the LAA and the NFU can work better together for farmers. Clive Brown provide an insight into current and future market trends both domestically and internationally as well as highlight what EBLEX are doing to promote English meat. The meeting, which has been organised by the NFU North West Livestock Board, will take place as follows……
- Venue – Chelford Auction Mart Chelford, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK11 9AX
- Date – Tuesday 13th September
- Time – 7.30pm – 9.00pm
The meeting is free to attend and everyone is welcome. If you would like to know more then please contact Adam Briggs on 01695 554 912 or e-mail adam.briggs@nfu.org.uk
Next Generation Policy Forum.
The NFU is establishing a cross-sector National Policy Forum for younger NFU members. The Forum will provide a platform for policy discussion between the NFU’s policy teams in Stoneleigh, London and Brussels and the next generation of farmers and growers. Members of the Forum, working with NFU policy advisors, will have an opportunity to influence policy development at a key time for farming and learn about the NFU’s decision-making processes at the same time. The 16-strong Forum will represent most sectors and regions. Appointment to the Forum will be a two-year fixed term period. Meetings will be held quarterly, but we anticipate substantial discussion on email between meetings. The aim is to enable some of our younger members to understand the work of the NFU and the lobbying process as well as to influence policy development. The meetings will include visits to London and Brussels. If you are interested or aware of someone who may be interested in applying to join the Forum please visit http://www.nfuonline.com/ngpf/ . All applications should be returned to Clare.Rowntree@nfu.org.uk no later than the 2nd October 2011.
Septic Tanks
There is growing evidence that septic tanks are contributing to water pollution and therefore the Environment Agency wanted all small domestic septic tanks to be registered by the end of this year. It has since been announced that Defra has asked the Environment Agency to review the registration process. We think the review might only take a couple of weeks and it is highly likely that there will be a need for septic tanks to be registered in the future. However for the moment, members do not need to register septic tanks until further notice. Further information can be found on the Environment Agency website - http://publications.environment-agency.gov.uk/PDF/GEHO0811BTVP-E-E.pdf
Two new farmer guides launched to help manage slurry and manure
Two new guides aimed at helping farmers to improve the storage, spreading and handling of manure and slurry are set to be launched. Think Manures has been produced as part of the ‘Tried & Tested’ campaign, together with the Environment Agency and relevant levy bodies. The guide will help farmers improve overall nutrient management efficiency, protect the environment and could help save money. On top of this, it will aid farmers in meeting NVZ regulations and assist in their fertiliser buying decisions. It will be launched at the Dairy Event and Livestock Show along with the New to Nutrient Management Guide, a leaflet developed to answer some frequently asked questions of matching nutrients to crop demand and providing practical guidance for farmers. Think Manures and New to Nutrient Management Guide will be launched at the Dairy Event and Livestock Show which takes place at Birmingham NEC from September 6-7. For free copies visit Tried & Tested at stand BM257.
Organic production in decline in the North West
Recent statistics released from Defra reveals the total amount of land used to grow organic vegetables & potatoes has fallen by 5% to 18,000.The North West showed the largest percentage drop in England for the second year running at 5%. Meanwhile retail sales of organic produce have fallen for the third year in a row, by 5.8% to £847m – a drop of almost 25% from the £1.1bn peak in 2008.
Members sought for North West Regional Flood & Coastal Committee
North West members with an interest in flood & coastal management are encouraged to put their names forward to become members of the North West Regional Flood & Coastal Committee. With funding reducing and that which is available being focused on more urban areas, the committee will have a critical role in approving programmes for flood management activity, deciding local flood risk priorities and raising local levies. It is therefore important for farmers and growers to be well represented (although the successful individuals will be appointed as members in their own right, not as a representative of the NFU). For more information or to apply for a place, contact Jane Sansbury – Tel: 01925 542 382, Email: jane.sansbury@environment-agency.gov.uk.
WHAT’S ON?
Lancashire RABI Sunday lunch: Sunday 4th September, Longridge, Lancs
At Ferrari’s at Longridge. 12 for 12.30pm. Three course lunch plus guest speaker Mike Keeble. Tickets priced £17 each, please contact Georgina Lamb on 07917 114 250.
Cheshire RABI and FCN present “Lunch with the Musical Farmer”: Sunday 4th September, Crewe, Cheshire
By kind permission of Mr and Mrs D Lewis. Lunch and live entertainment in a marquee at Park Farm, Crewe Green, Crewe, CW1 5UP. Sunday 4th September, 12.30 for 1pm. Tickets £15 each, please bring own drinks and glasses. For further info, please contact Georgina Lamb on 07917 114 250.
Let Nature Feed Your Senses National Conference: Tuesday 6th September, Reaseheath College, Cheshire
Are you interested in hosting engaging farm visits? Then this conference is for you! Key note speakers will be Jo Schofield and Fiona Danks who will share ideas to awaken a sense of wonder and enjoyment in the natural world. Jo and Fiona have authored the Going Wild series of fully illustrated books which are full of practical ideas to make it easier for families, schools, play leaders and children to get outdoors and have fun. Other speakers include Sue Padfield, who has developed a sensory rich memory box to help elderly people reminisce during visits. Paul Barnes, a Lancashire host who also works for Voyage Care, will discuss the current policy environment and the implications of personal care budgets for hosts, while Bev James from the Warriner school farm will discuss the distinctiveness of project visits. Come and be inspired! To book your place, please get in touch with Carol Cartwright on 024 7641 3911.
Generating Income from your Woodland: Wednesday 7th September, Bolton, Lancashire
This free taster event is for farmers with areas of woodland, no matter how big or small, to help identify whether their woodland could be managed to produce wood fuel. Woodland that is not viable for timber production could be viable for wood fuel. Experts from The Mersey Forest and Bowland Bioenergy will give an introduction to assessing the types of woodland you have, the potential for wood fuel, what income you could receive and what grants are available together with an overview of regulations. Venue: The Mercury Hotel, Bolton, BL5 3JP. Time: 6.45pm – 9pm. To book your place on the taster evening or for further details contact Myerscough College on 01995 64218.
Free bus to North of England Potato Day: Tuesday 13th September, Askham Bryan, York
This one-day event has been put together by the Potato Council to help growers become more efficient and cost-effective. Featuring a repeating programme of short indoor sessions combined with trial plots and interactive workshops in the field. There’s also a chance to hear from legendary Emeritus Professor and food marketing specialist, David Hughes. A bus service is available exclusively for North West growers. This will depart from the NFU North West Regional Office at Skelmersdale at 7am and will chauffeur growers directly to and from the event. To reserve your free seat on the bus and your free ticket to the event contact Aarun Naik at the NFU North West office on 01695 554 929.
World Sheepdog Trials: 15th – 18th Sept, Lowther Estates, Cumbria
The fourth annual World Sheep Dog Trials will see a total of 26 nations and 240 handlers and their dogs competing for the ultimate prize - a gold shepherd's whistle and the much-coveted title of world champion. Four days of sheep dog trials, with the grand final taking place on Sunday, September 18. The trials will be supported by an action-packed Food & Country Festival, with something for all the family to enjoy. And of course, the NFU will be there with a 24 x10 metre hospitality marquee as well as the NFU’s educational exhibit vehicle. For more info visit www.worldsheepdogtrials.org.
NFU North West Poultry Meeting: Monday 19th September, Myerscough College, near Preston, Lancs
ALL farmers are welcome at this open meeting of the North West Poultry Board. Guest speaker, David Leavesley from Risk Management Services will be highlighting the key health & safety issues affecting the poultry sector. In addition, Kelly Watson, Chief Poultry Adviser from NFU Head Office will explain the latest regulation coming out of Westminster & Brussels that will impact poultry businesses. There will also be an update of the latest issues affecting egg, broiler chicken and turkey producers, and of course a chance to put your concerns and questions to the board elected to represent your interests. 7:30pm at the Rural Business Centre of Myerscough College near Preston, Lancs, PR3 0RY. For more info contact Aarun Naik - Tel: 01695 554 929, Email: aarun.naik@nfu.org.uk.
Tupping and beyond - Preparing for a successful lambing Wednesday 21st September, Heaton Farm, Middleton
Speakers include independent vet Debby Brown demonstrating practically how to carry out a tup MOT, and sheep consultant Lesley Stubbings looking at feeding the ewe before and during pregnancy to help optimise your next year’s lamb crop. James Hadwin from SAC will also be present to discuss the benefits of animal health and welfare planning.
Booking is essential. Heaton Farm, Bowlee, Middleton, Manchester, M24 4RP – by kind permission of David Heywood, starting at 12.00noon. Contact Michelle Fare on 01995 642 206 or email livestocknw@myerscough.ac.uk.
Taste Cumbria Food Festival: Sat 24th & Sun 25th September, Cockermouth, Cumbria
A weekend long celebration of all that is best in local Cumbria produce. From small producers’ markets to celebrity chef demonstrations and master-classes, if you love regional food and drink, Cockermouth is the place to be this September, as the county joins together in this large-scale culinary celebration. For more info visit www.tastecumbria.com
Cheshire Ploughing & Hedgelaying Match: Wednesday 28th September, Barthomley, Crewe
Something for everyone with an interest in the countryside. Farming both old and new can be seen working in front of you, not just static exhibits but demonstrations and, of course, the competitions. Local refreshment stalls & bar. Over 100 trade stands. Come along and see the old and new together and have a day out you won't forget. And make sure you call in at the NFU marquee. Public admission £8, Members Tickets £12. Takes place at Flash House Farm, Barthomley, Crewe, CW2 5PG (1 mile from Junction 16 M6/A500).
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