Eustice also added that he is supportive of farming systems which use a tailored approach to production, such as soil management, legumes for nitrogen fixation and rotations, and farming systems which balanced traditional techniques with modern breeding practices.
Organic conversion and maintenance support in its current form was confirmed as being available under Countryside Stewardship until the UK leaves the EU, including windows in 2017 and 2018 for five-year agreements starting in 2018 and 2019.
ORC director Nic Lampkin supported George Eustice’s comments describing them as ‘extremely positive’.
“This was a valuable opportunity to bring the organic sector together to air their concerns and aspirations for the industry, and it was encouraging that the Minister was obviously prepared to listen and take them on board,” he said.
“With the right support, the organic sector can continue to provide valuable public goods and services, supported by the market, which Mr Eustice seemed to recognize.”
“The Minister also recognised the value of the organic brand in developing trade opportunities for UK businesses."
NFU Food Chain Adviser, Christine McDowell said: “ The organic sector will be pleased to hear this news, which is a real positive movement forward for organic farmers. Government commitment is vital at such a critical time for the agricultural industry, so organic farmers can now look forward to future government support for the short term.”