NFU Livestock Board elects new chair
Clare Wise has been appointed as chair of the NFU's national Livestock Board.
Clare Wise, a mixed farmer from County Durham, has been elected as NFU Livestock Board Chair, following the sad passing of former chair David Barton in July.
Clare served as vice-chair from March 2026 and will serve as chair for the remainder of this term.
Speaking after the elections, Clare said: “Let me first pay tribute to David who we all miss enormously. He was a valued chair of this board whose knowledge, commitment and leadership earned the respect of colleagues across the industry.
“David leaves a lasting legacy which I hope this board can continue to build on and develop as we look to help shape the future of the livestock sector on behalf of our members.
Holding government to account
“Listening to NFU members and understanding the issues that matter most to them will remain at the heart of our work.
“Whether it’s the cost of producing food, disease control, environmental regulation or climate change and extreme weather, as a board, we will ensure government is held to account on the policies and decisions affecting livestock farmers across the country, so we can unlock investment and look to build resilient and profitable businesses.”
Devon farmer Mark Weekes elected as vice-chair.
