In this week’s vlog, NFU President Tom Bradshaw discussed his meeting with the Farming Minister Dame Angela Eagle. Tom ensured the voice of members was heard on issues ranging from the impact of the Iran War, electricity standing charge rises, SFI and concerns over the government's lamb castration and tail docking proposals.
Tom also described the feeling in the room during the inaugural meeting of the Farming and Food Partnership Board, which brought together ministers and food and farming representatives from across the industry.
Following Defra Secretary Emma Reynolds’ roundtable on private finance in nature markets, Tom stressed the importance of this market for members’ businesses, both big and small.
Two ministerial meetings saw NFU Deputy President Paul Tompkins discussing members’ water issues with Minister Emma Hardy and, alongside NFU Livestock Board Chair David Barton, Defra’s refreshed bTB (bovine tuberculosis) strategy with the Farming Minister.
NFU Vice-president Robyn Munt updated on rural crime from the National Rural Crime Network Conference, where an £800,000 funding boost was announced. Robyn also co-signed a letter this week urging the government to accept amendments to a Bill that would ensure that the victims of fly-tipping are not left covering the cost.
Finally, Tom touched on the EU/UK SPS (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) negotiations webinars where members were able to put their questions straight to Defra’s negotiating team. Members can now register for further expert-led webinars taking place over the next two weeks which will be tailored to your farming sector.
