Rochester NFU has asked Mark Reckless MP to urge government to extend a seasonal labour scheme and introduce a groceries code adjudicator.
The MP attended a private briefing with Rochester NFU branch at Mackays Court Farm, Middle Stoke on Friday (January 27), courtesy of vegetable growers Brian and Marion Stone.
Rochester NFU group secretary Clive Wenham, based in Meopham, arranged the meeting. Mr Wenham explained: “Growers highlighted the ongoing need for a Seasonal Agricultural Workers’ scheme that allows them to source workers on a Home Office permit system for their horticultural businesses. This scheme is a vital tool that enables British growers to tend and harvest quality home-grown fruit and vegetables within a short time frame. Mark Reckless MP also heard NFU members’ experiences of dealing with supermarkets and growers reiterated the NFU’s plea for a groceries code adjudicator.”
NFU members also provided an overview of the state of UK agriculture and discussed the possible impacts of the proposed reform of EU Common Agricultural Policy in 2014. Other issues debated included development proposals for an airport in the Thames estuary and the new Thames crossing.
Details from Clive Wenham tel: 01474 813141.
Photo available from isobel.bretherton@nfu.org.uk
Notes To Editors:
NFU South East, Unit 8, Rotherbrook Court, Bedford Road, Petersfield, Hampshire GU32 3QG
Telephone: 01730 711950 ISDN: 01730 266023
http://www.nfuonline.com
The NFU is the voice of British farming and provides professional representation and services to its farmer and grower members.
No comments have been made.