I hope you are already well aware of the review of supply chain fairness in the combinable crops sector being conducted by Defra, and of the opportunity this provides to create a better balance of power within our markets.
With the closing date approaching, I wanted to ensure this remains at the forefront of our minds and to ask all of you to respond directly to the review ahead of the deadline on 4 February. Thank you to the many members that have already done so.
The more responses Defra receives, the more compelling the case for change becomes. And it is clear change is needed. For too long, there has been an imbalance of power within the combinable crops supply chain, with growers shouldering the largest burden of risk.
Quick ways to take part
The wide-ranging consultation enables us to have our say, and covers aspects such as specifications, reasonable notice, transparency of prices, the ability to negotiate terms and more.
You are able to provide as much or as little information into the consultation as you like. The ‘quick’ approach is to focus on the simple tick boxes, starting with whether you believe the supply chain operates fairly, and whether government intervention is required. This will ensure the quantitative analysis of the consultation responses reflects your views.
If you only do this and do not complete the text boxes, this will only take you 5-10 minutes. Alternatively, you can provide examples to back up your answers and even consider other contractual clauses which could impact on the imbalance of power when selling your grain.
How can I take part?
Visit our consultation page for advice on quick, average and in-depth options for filling out Defra's consultation.
Read our guide, put together with the NFU Combinable Crops Board, which covers discussion points in relation to the questions Defra is asking.
Your chance to make a difference
We have some helpful information online to guide you through the consultation and to make it as straightforward as possible. And we will be holding our second webinar at 12pm on 2 February to discuss it further with you.
Please do respond to the consultation if you can. Defra has already acted to mitigate some of the worst practices in the dairy supply chain and is preparing to legislate in other farming sectors. This is our chance to secure a positive outcome for the sector.
Thank you, in advance, for your support on this important matter.
Read our guidance on the consultation:
Have your say on fairness in the combinable crops supply chain
What we've heard: Crops supply chain fairness consultation webinar