Brexit 'is great opportunity' for British farming industry, CLA says

Brexit is an opportunity to deliver a more profitable farming industry, according to the document
Brexit is an opportunity to deliver a more profitable farming industry, according to the document

Brexit is an opportunity to deliver a more profitable farming industry, according to a rural organisation which has released a new publication setting out its vision for post-Brexit farming.

In its latest publication, the CLA has called for a dedicated strategy that targets investment at supporting farmers to be more resilient, productive and profitable.

It said that coming out of the EU provides an opportunity to develop policies that are right for the industry to move towards a more profitable and sustainable future.

The CLA said that the "inevitable changes" may not be easy to navigate, and that it will require businesses to be willing to confront issues head on and have the confidence to make changes to their business.

A key challenge is for UK farming to be competitive in a global market place when costs of production are high in part due to compliance with the UK's world leading standards of environmental protection, animal welfare and food safety.

The publication said that efficiencies can be achieved through adoption of new technologies and practices, working more efficiently with each other and in the supply chain.

However, it urges the need for investment and a change in mindset to challenge current practices, change the traditional culture and develop new market relationships and create confidence to invest.

A transition period will be "vital" to allow adaptation to the new policy and market conditions.

'Major opportunity'

CLA Deputy President Tim Breitmeyer said Brexit is a "major opportunity" for British agriculture.

“There are many important decisions to get right with regard to trade and transition, but there is significant cause for optimism,” he said.

“Success can be delivered through new policy that targets a range of measures and a clear investment strategy focused on improving the profitability and productivity of the farming industry should be part of this drive.

“The Government and the industry must come together to develop this and our report provides a clear overview of where the priorities lie.

“Delivering profitable farming is one of three strands that make up the CLA’s vision for a post-Brexit Food, Farming and Environmental Policy.

“At its core is our strong belief that a profitable, resilient farming sector is the foundation of a thriving rural economy and the means to deliver for nature and the environment.”