The NFU has welcomed commitments from Defra Secretary of State Michael Gove to publicly support the British farming sector on today’s Back British Farming Day (13 September).
The NFU’s Back British Farming Day is a rallying call to encourage MPs to use their position in Westminster to support British farming, particularly in forthcoming Brexit negotiations.
During an interview for this month’s edition of British Farmer and Grower – the NFU’s membership magazine – Michael Gove made the following points:
· The Cabinet has an enthusiasm and desire to back British farming which is extended across Government;
· He confirmed he will be wearing a special ‘Back British Farming Day’ pin badge which have been sent to all MPs ahead of the event and wants his fellow politicians to do the same;
· Government should support farmers to become more efficient, more productive and more competitive;
· And during Brexit he wants Government to support farmers more than ever, not just to export to new markets but also to ensure that domestics and European markets continue to benefit from high quality British produce.
NFU President Meurig Raymond said: “We welcome the Secretary of State’s commitments ahead of Back British Farming Day. This support will be critical for the farming sector as Brexit negotiations get underway.
“It’s vital the Secretary of State stays true to these commitments and encourages the wider Cabinet to champion British farming and ensures agriculture is a central part of the political conversation during Brexit negotiations. We must ensure farming in this country has a thriving future outside of the EU.
“Back British Farming Day provides us with the perfect opportunity to engage with MPs across the political parties to ensure that any decisions taken in Parliament reflect the strategic importance of British food and farming to our nation.”