Six MPs from across the political spectrum visited ABP (Anglo Beef Processors) UK’s demonstration farm, a mixed livestock, grassland and arable business spanning 380-acres on the Shropshire/Staffordshire border.
ABP specialises in the supply and development of award-winning British and Irish beef and lamb products for retail, foodservice and wholesale and works with farming businesses across the country.
The visit on Friday, 24 April formed part of the NFU’s Food and Farming Fellowship Scheme, which showcases the industry to MPs and provides the opportunity to better their understanding of UK farming and food.
Discussion covered the impacts of the conflict in the Middle East on production costs for UK farmers and growers, as well as government plans to reform rules around castrating and tail docking lambs.
The MPs also went out onto the fields to speak about the government’s SFI (Sustainable Farming Incentive) scheme, which sees farmers receive funding for carrying out environmentally beneficial practices on farm while allowing them to continue running their businesses.
They discovered how ABP is driving suitability and watched a live butchery demonstration before tucking into a barbecue lunch.
Ongoing conversations
NFU Livestock Vice-chair Clare Wise said: “It is great to get MPs out on farm so they can get a better understanding of the farming industry and see for themselves the essential role farmers play in feeding the nation.
“It is crucial we remain in discussion with politicians so they have the knowledge they need to support UK farmers and growers, both in times of crisis as we are now with the war in the Middle East, and to create the right policy framework to underpin productive agriculture for the longer-term.”
Read more about the scheme in action
Phil Hambling, Director of Agriculture and Sustainable Sourcing at ABP UK, said: “We’re pleased to support the NFU Food and Farming Fellowship Programme, showcasing ABP’s leadership in the beef and lamb sector and highlighting the importance of our industry to national food resilience, the rural economy and sustainability.
“Through a full day of practical demonstrations and storytelling, we’re shining a light on the talent, expertise and passion behind producing high quality beef and lamb from farm to fork.
“We know Westminster can sometimes feel far removed from the farm gate, and this programme helps strengthen connections between those shaping policy and the day to day realities faced on farm and in our factories.”
The NFU’s Food and Farming Fellowship scheme launched in 2024 in partnership with sponsoring organisations ABP UK, AIC (Agricultural Industries Confederation), Arla Foods, Barfoots, the BEIC (British Egg Industry Council) and Fareshare, showcasing the industry and enabling participating MPs to see first hand how sustainable and affordable food gets from field to fork.
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MPs, NFU staff and ABP representatives gather for a group photo
Photographs: Adam Fradgley / Exposure Photography
