Shropshire farming chief in food supply call over Brexit
A leading Shropshire farming official says it is vital that the country has a "reliable and traceable" supply of food in the wake of Brexit.
National Farmers' Union county chairman Richard Yates also stressed the importance of farmers having access to the single market.
Mr Yates made the comments following a visit to Brussels, where he was part of a delegation to debate the effects of Brexit on British agriculture.
He said: "We will advocate how important it is to have a reliable and traceable supply of food to our country.
"We are still only 61 per cent self-sufficient in this country and must not allow inferior products and farms to reduce standards to undermine our production."
Among the issues to be discussed during the trip was whether famers will have access to the single market.
Mr Yates said there is a strong feeling in Brussels of shock over Britain's decision to leave the EU.
He said: "It has been a fascinating couple of days.
"We have met with someone from the Australian meat industry who is interested in developing contacts with Great Britain.
"We have also met with a local MEP and a representative from a Swedish organisation.
"I think there is a feeling of shock in Brussels of the Brexit result. There is a feeling they are circling their wagons to prevent any further tremors extending throughout Europe and it is possible they might want to make an example of us.
"The Australian trade official said they were desperate to extend their foot in the door in the market of 500 millions consumers in the EU.
"They are amazed we are turning our back on this wonderful opportunity and potentially leaving the single market.
"It would be beneficial to agriculture to find a solution so we don't leave the single market."
Mr Yates said he has pressed government ministers about whether Britain is going to remain in the single market – but it seems they are undecided.
He said: "We have been talking to trade officials who say we can't afford to be in limbo for too long.
"We must present a policy which suits everyone in the countryside.
"We are aware many more environmental considerations will be attached to any further government support. But is is difficult to go green when you are farming in the red," Mr Yates added.
Among the others issues to be discussed during the trip were milk prices and bovine TB.
