One of Europe’s biggest farming events, #NFU16 (February 23 & 24) will see 1,400 delegates descend on Britain’s second city to discuss the future of agriculture.
This year’s conference will debate a range of topics, from the political challenges posed both within the UK and EU – with a view to the referendum - to the government’s 25-year food plan and the forecasted impact on farmer and grower businesses.
Some of the most influential voices in agriculture will be on hand to share their thoughts and answer questions at the most important event in the agricultural industry calendar.
Among those due to speak are the Defra Secretary of State Elizabeth Truss, farming minister George Eustice MP, Mark Berrisford-Smith - head of economics for HSBC UK - and Nigel Gibbens, the UK’s chief vet.
NFU President Meurig Raymond said: “This year’s conference has its sights set firmly on the future so among the big issues on our agenda will be the EU Referendum, the urgency of sorting out BPS payments, the simplification of the CAP and the roll-out of the bTB strategy.
“As ever we have a fantastic line up of speakers and this year a record number of delegates attending. I am really looking forward to a useful, stimulating and enjoyable couple of days.”
Apart from the debates in the main hall, there will be a number of commodity breakout sessions, breakfast meetings and sector specific workshops, with particular focus on global markets, the changing labour landscape in light of the National Living Wage, as well as the possible Brexit vote.
Online and on social…
This year’s NFU annual conference will be the most interactive to date and for those who can’t make it to Birmingham’s ICC many of the main sessions will be streamed live on NFUonline, here. Social media users can follow the conversation using #NFU16 on Twitter and by following @NFUtweets. Delegates and online viewers can use the hashtag to ask questions and share pictures.