Farmers can help drive a productive and competitive cereals industry post-Brexit by inviting decision makers out on farm this harvest and showing them first-hand the value of UK grain production – that’s the message from the NFU as it kick starts another year of its #YourHarvest campaign today.
Alongside showcasing to MPs the significant contribution of arable farmers to the economy, food supply and environment, this year’s #YourHarvest will also emphasise the potential for growth post-Brexit, if the right agriculture policy is achieved.
NFU combinable crops board chairman Tom Bradshaw said: “Grain production is an incredibly important part of day-to-day life, quite literally providing the bread for our tables. The supply chain employs more than 43,000 people and contributes £3.5 billion to the national economy, and the grain we produce forms the foundation of the UK food and drink industry.
“Yet crops is currently one of the only areas of farming given no tariff protections if we leave the EU without a deal. Its importance simply must not be overlooked as Brexit discussions continue over the next few months.
“We want to see MPs working with farmers to develop an agriculture policy that enables us to capitalise on future opportunities; increasing productivity, delivering more for the environment, contributing towards our net zero aspirations and growing in value to the economy.
“All arable growers have a role to play by inviting their local MP on farm this harvest to show them why investing in the future of cereals is so important. We really do have a great story to tell, so let’s shout about it.”
The NFU is handing out #YourHarvest campaigning guides to members at Cereals today which will provide the tools to help MPs build their understanding of what arable farming delivers for the nation.
Click here to download the NFU's #YourHarvest guide
#YourHarvest statistics:
- Every year the UK produces 20 million tonnes of grain for food and animal feed
- The equivalent of 11 million loaves of bread are produced in the UK every day and 85% of the wheat used is British
- Biofuels made from UK crops saves as much carbon as taking 400,000 cars off roads
The NFU will be on stand 331 at Cereals Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 June.