A select group of MPs and members of the House of Lords joined the breakfast to hear from those working in the sectors to understand the challenges they face in terms of recruiting, retaining and ensuring enough staff for their respective businesses. NFU member and former Poultry Industry Programme member, Patrick Lynn, shared his perspective as an egg producer. Other speakers included Pig Producer Richard Longthorp, Director of HR at Noble Foods Louisa Hogarty and Avara Foods' Commercial Production Manager Christian White.
The spokespeople set out what each of the sectors are doing to promote their industry to future generations and demonstrate the range of job opportunities that are available. Another key point raised during the discussion included the need to not only educate children about the breadth of careers options but also to ensure that teachers and parents appreciate the opportunities available.
Politicians in attendance included Chair of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee Chair, Neil Parish and the APPG's Chairman, DUP MP Jim Shannon.
Picture (L-R) Richard Longthorp, Louisa Hogarty, Patrick Lynn, Christian White and Jim Shannon MP.
The APPG for Eggs, Pigs and Poultry is run by the NFU in partnership with the National Pig Association, British Poultry Council and British Egg Industry Council.