Farmers have until tomorrow morning to complete the biggest government consultation on farming since 1947.
Farmers have until 11.45pm tomorrow (Tuesday 8 May) to respond to the Defra Health and Harmony command paper.
The paper is a once in a generation chance to ensure farming’s voice is heard when it matters – as the UK government shapes future agriculture policy.
The NFU said the decisions made today will impact food and farming for years to come.
The farming union has released a video of President Minette Batters calling on farmers to respond to the consultation.
She said: "It's phenomenally important that each and every one of you gets involved in this once in a lifetime opportunity to be shaping our future."
The NFU has highlighted three key areas that it feels are crucial. Firstly, food production - the union said maintaining a robust and resilient domestic food production sector is in the nation’s interest.
Secondly trade - the NFU said it is essential that government trade policy ensures that the industry's current world leading production standards are not undermined.
And thirdly the environment - producing food in a productive and resource efficient way brings environmental benefits for the UK and the world, the union explained.
Ways to respond
Responding directly via the government’s website. This involves completing a web-based questionnaire. You do not have to reply to all of the questions that are posed.
Responding via email: agricultureconsultation@defra.gsi.gov.uk
Farmers wishing to do this option should either address the specific questions set out in the command paper, or provide more general views and feedback.
The NFU suggests sticking to the themes and areas of questioning in the command paper. This will make it easier for Defra to collate the feedback.
