Minister on farm
Worcestershire farmers met Conservative Minister Sajid Javid to talk industry issues, food production and how they drive growth in rural communities.
Farmers and NFU staff met the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on farm at Rednal.
They discussed how food production delivers for the economy, jobs and communities, as well as for the environment.
The meeting came just hours after a speech from Michael Gove MP, Secretary of State for the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs on farm support payments and the industry post Brexit.
The kitchen table meeting with Mr Javid was hosted by farmer and NFU dairy board chairman, Michael Oakes, and members of the union’s Bromsgrove branch.
Farmers appealed to the MP, who is also Midlands Engine Ministerial Champion, to do what he could to support profitable, productive farming post Brexit.
Mr Oakes said: “We deliver for the wellbeing of the nation, providing a traceable, safe and affordable domestic food supply to some of the highest standards in the world, which the public trusts.
“I think it was quite a timely given Mr Gove’s statement this morning and that set the tone for our meeting which was very positive.
“We pointed out that there is lot of positive work being done for the environment on our farms and if the industry is given the right support, to be profitable and productive, we can achieve even more.”
Mr Javid heard that farmers manage and maintain 70 per cent of the landscape which is feasible only as long as farmers run viable businesses.
“We also talked to him about the importance of rural farm businesses helping to create viable and vibrant rural communities,” Mr Oakes added.
“Farms contribute to the economy, returning more than £7 for every £1 invested, and even when the price pressure is on for our businesses we are putting back into communities, other local businesses and rural areas.
“We were delighted to welcome the Minister and he was certainly in listening mode.”
During the visit the need for access to a reliable, competent workforce was also discussed, among other issues.
George Bostock, NFU Worcestershire assistant county adviser, said: “Agriculture and horticulture provides the raw materials for a domestic food industry that employs 3.8 million people and which, as the UK’s largest manufacturing sector, generates £109 billion in value for the UK economy.
“Today’s meeting on farm at Rednal was an excellent opportunity to reinforce that message to Mr Javid, our local MP, and we discussed many issues with him including why a future agricultural policy must be comprehensive; in terms of improving productivity, managing volatility and protecting the environment.
“I would like to thank the Minister for coming into the rural heart of his constituency and hearing our views.”
