It brings to an end the 2012/13 programme which has provided participants with an overview of the wider cereals industry and how the NFU interacts with Government.
Owen Paterson said: “The next generation of farmers will be responsible for shaping British farming to take advantage of the huge opportunities presented by an increasing global demand for Western food, protecting our environment, and growing the rural economy.
“I’m delighted to be meeting the farmers of the future and listening to their views and experiences. It’s important that we encourage the right people into the industry and this goes hand-in-hand with the work we in Government are doing as part of the Future of Farming review.”
Programme chairman Tom Reynolds said it was an honour to have the chance to meet with the Secretary of State and that he hoped the 14- strong group would demonstrate the importance of equipping the next generation of farmers with the necessary skills to shape their sector.
“This is an industry that we all care passionately about and it is fantastic that Mr Paterson has agreed to meet with us and show that he is willing to listen to our views and opinions,” he said.
Notes to editors
• The meeting will take place in London on February 6.