What is the vision for this country? NFU President asks Labour panellists – NFUonline

Charlie Ireland reiterated the NFU’s call for the Government to give farmers the confidence they need to invest. “We have a really exciting opportunity here for food production as land use across Europe tries to find its direction… we have the chance to create a world-leading farming system where land use is dynamic and flexible.”

“We are a broad church, but the common denominator is stability. We need this trust to invest in the future.”

Sarah Russell, new MP for Congleton and a member of the NFU’s Food and Farming Fellowship Scheme, spoke about Labour’s mission to boost economic growth and remove barriers to access to jobs, adding that she knew farmers in her constituency were “absolutely focused” on these two goals.

She said farmers’ intergenerational mindset about investment is a “phenomenal advantage” for our country.

Floods in focus

Many parts of England are facing flooding and the Environment Agency currently has 65 flood warnings in place. The minister said the rain was a reminder to farmers of the challenges posed by flooding.

Tom reiterated that extreme weather events are one of the biggest challenges facing the industry, adding that he hopes for an update to the Farming Recovery Fund to support farmers affected by floods.

“It is absolutely crucial that we pay out the money to the farmers who were promised it many months ago,” he said.

Funding was first announced in January and the NFU has worked with RPA and Defra to develop the offer, which includes providing examples of the challenges facing our members.

Looking to the future and the measures needed for growth, Tom identified the farm budget, protecting the farmland tax exemption, science- and evidence-based policymaking, and a supportive planning framework as the most pressing concerns.

The planning, from manure storage to poultry houses, was repeatedly addressed by spectators and discussion participants.

Mr Ireland gave the example that if he wanted to apply for a grant, he would have nine months to use the funds, but it could take up to three years to get planning permission. “This prevents diversification opportunities for farms.”

Tom said he would like to conduct a food impact test as part of the National Planning Policy Framework, which is currently under review.

In his closing remarks, the minister said the government was “passionately committed to getting things right.”

“My message to you is: I am your minister and this is an ongoing dialogue.”

Tom said October 30th was an important day and that “there are many opportunities if we can make the necessary investments.”