Defra’s commitment to develop a Horticulture Growth Strategy took an important step forward at the end of March when, at the first meeting of the Farming and Food Partnership Board, attended by NFU President Tom Bradshaw, it was confirmed that the strategy would be a central part of the Board’s work.
The Board also confirmed that core engagement in the development of the plan will be in collaboration with the Horticulture Expert Growers’ Group and Environmental Horticulture Group, both of which the NFU plays an important role within, alongside the British Growers’ Association, Horticulture Trades Association and a number of crop associations.
“Importantly, it is the interaction between policies that will make or break a growth strategy.”
NFU Horticulture and Potatoes Board Chair Martin Emmett
Broader perspective
NFU Horticulture and Potatoes Board Chair Martin Emmett said that the NFU had already laid the groundwork for a constructive and effective process.
“For a number of years, through the NFU’s own Horticulture Growth Strategy, we have made it clear which policies will have the most impact for growers, from energy and water infrastructure, to labour availability and sector funding and more,” Martin said.
“Some of these have already secured important wins for growers, including a longer term seasonal worker scheme, improving access to the Industrial Energy Transformation Fund and securing a supply chain fairness review.
“Importantly, it is the interaction between policies that will make or break a growth strategy. It is no good seeking a ‘win’ in one area if it cannot be realised or taken advantage of due to the barriers created by another. That’s the benefit of a broader perspective, and we are assured by Defra that this is how the strategy will be developed.”
Looking forward
While acknowledging the process will not be plain sailing and not all policy asks are in the gift of Defra, Martin remained positive about the opportunities ahead.
“Throughout this process we will be seeking commitments and alignment across departments, helped by the NFU’s longstanding relationships with the Home Office, Department for Business and Trade, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and others.”
As the process develops, the NFU will keep members updated, and growers can get in touch with the NFU Horticulture team at [email protected] to share their thoughts.
