Members John and Sally Banks, Paul and NFU North Riding and County Adviser Laurie Norris met York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith on the Banks’ dairy farm in Kilburn.
Concerned about reports of falling prices in the dairy sector, Mr Skaith was keen to learn more about the current issues facing the sector, farming’s importance to the economy of York and North Yorkshire, and explore what support could make a difference to farmers locally.
The Banks’ demonstrated the importance of farming to the rural economy with examples from their own enterprise, showing the extent of their contribution to local businesses and how many businesses rely on a profitable farming sector.
During a discussion on employment and education, John and Sally shared insights on the development of their own workforce, several of whom are students. With two agricultural colleges in the area, they emphasised the need to attract young people to agriculture, and demonstrated the career opportunities within the dairy sector.
One of the issues highlighted was the need for energy security. The group discussed renewable energy grants aimed at helping farmers manage their energy expenses. They visited the Bank’s small solar array on farm and talked through how the system helps to their reduce costs.
NFU Deputy President Paul raised the opportunities for farmers in fulfilling local food procurement opportunities and concerns around food procurement and tender process restrictions, with the Mayor confirming changes would come into force next year. They also discussed food security, rural crime, fly-tipping and planning as part of a wide ranging discussion.
Paul and David then enjoyed a farm tour, where they met staff and viewed some of John and Sally’s 900 cows.
Sharing ambitions
NFU Deputy President Paul Tompkins said: “Mayoral authorities can meaningfully influence farming by steering regional support and offer access to regional funding. Therefore, meeting Mayor David Skaith and sharing our ambitions for Yorkshire's farming community helps amplify farming interests at a time when farming is under severe pressure but fundamental to our national security.”
NFU North Riding and Durham County Adviser Laurie Norris said: “We really appreciate that the Mayor values farming and understands its contribution to York and North Yorkshire and is looking at ways that he can help. Be that through grants or business support – he is proactively trying to help the industry.
“Our energy discussion really brought home the value of small-scale on-farm renewables. David was very clear about the importance of both food security and energy security - and how farming sits at the heart of both.”
