Egg industry leaders have called for the British Egg Industry Council (BEIC) to play a leading role in the recently announced Trade and Agriculture Commission.
Given the technical nuances of eggs and egg products, the BEIC believes it is essential that it becomes a member of the new Commission, which will scrutinise and advise the Government on future trade deals that the UK will be pursuing all over the world.
Having played a key role in the joint campaign across British farming to establish the trade and agricultural standards group, to prevent countries with low-or-no animal welfare standards from undermining our producers, the BEIC has a vital role to play in the new commission.
Mark Williams, chief executive of the British Egg Industry Council, said: “It is excellent news that the Government has listened to the British farming community on this issue. The British Egg Industry Council represents the British egg industry, which has a number of unique issues that need to be properly represented and it is therefore critical we are included in the makeup of the Trade and Agriculture Commission.”
Andrew Joret, Chairman of the British Egg Industry Council, added: “The UK egg industry is one of agriculture’s greatest success stories, being highly efficient, innovative and responsive to consumer demands. We believe we have much to offer in terms of our experience.”
The Trade and Agriculture Commission will inform post-Brexit trade and make recommendations on agricultural trade policy, animal welfare, and export opportunities for British farmers. Its membership will comprise Government officials, industry representatives, animal welfare groups and experts in food and farming.