After looking around the Houses of Parliament the group visited the NFU’s London office, where Scott Pepe, the NFU’s Head of External Affairs, talked about the work his team does on behalf of members and current lobbying activity across a range of policy areas.
This includes keeping the Government up to date with the effect price rises and market volatility caused by the conflict in the Middle East are having on the industry and international trade.
The day concluded with a session looking at how to lobby effectively, including tips and tricks on how to engage with policy makers and improve advocacy for the industry. There was also a session about effective meeting chairing.
Inspiring the next generation
Member Develops aims to inspire a new and engaged group of the next generation of NFU members and leaders.
The London trip was one of a number of activities which the group will be undertaking. So far these have included social media training, a tour of the Morrisons distribution depot in Bridgwater and the opportunity to attend NFU Conference.
Regional Network Manager Gemma Harvey said: “It was great to see so many of the group in London. We had an inspiring time hearing about all the work that happens in the London office and we are looking forward to the other events in the programme.”