Mr Roberts was speaking during a panel debate, sponsored by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers, alongside AHDB chairman, Sir Peter Kendall, and Oliver McEntyre, Barclays.
He also commented on the importance of more and better collaboration within the industry on developing new products and opening new markets.
Mr Roberts said:
“For that to happen, it needs the right investment and trading environment. Top of the list must be ensuring a free and frictionless trade deal with the EU. Alongside this, a future trade policy that doesn’t allow imports of dairy products produced to standards that would be illegal to produce here.
“We know the British public supports the farming industry and it’s absolutely clear that whether it’s milk, cheese, butter or yogurt, people love and value dairy – in fact 98% of households are regularly buying dairy products that are nutritious and produced safely to high standards of animal welfare and environmental protection.
“I’d like to see all farmers contributing positively to the debate. We have a great story to tell, so let’s tell it – we can all be advocates for this great industry.
“There are some big challenges facing us, but also great opportunities in 2020 and beyond. I am really optimistic for the future of the dairy sector as long as the government and supply chain backs British farming and puts policies in place, so dairy farmers can keep on providing great tasting and nutritious dairy products.”
The Dairy Tech event, held at Stoneleigh Park on 5 February 2020, attracted thousands of visitors from around the country. Our experts, including NFU dairy board chairman, Michael Oakes, and chief dairy adviser, James Osman, spent the day on the NFU stand talking through all aspects of members’ dairy farming businesses and providing advice, guidance and insight into the current market and future opportunities.
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