NFU president meets shadow Defra secretary to discuss Brexit strategy

Workington MP Sue Hayman was appointed the new Shadow Defra secretary in February
Workington MP Sue Hayman was appointed the new Shadow Defra secretary in February

The importance of a fair deal for British farmers post-Brexit was discussed when shadow Defra secretary Sue Hayman met NFU president Meurig Raymond.

Workington MP Sue Hayman was appointed the new Shadow Defra secretary only in February, but Mr Raymond said he was keen to meet her to explain some of the most pressing issues.

The meeting focused on the NFU's work, calls were made on the government to prepare for Brexit and develop a new domestic policy.

"Wirth her responsibility for agricultural policy, it is vital that Ms Hayman not only appreciates but fully understands the consequences of a fair deal and outcome for British farmers post-Brexit, so we are working with politicians of all parties to ensure that this happens," said Mr Raymond.

"We thanked her for her support during the serious flooding in her constituency in Cumbria, and talked about how we can work with the opposition to get government action around the key asks in our Flooding Manifesto.

"Some of our most productive and highest value agricultural land lies in floodplains or coastal regions, vulnerable to flooding, and deserves to be protected.

"So we are pressing the government and its agencies to develop long-term strategic plans to mitigate future flood risk."

This meeting is part on an ongoing strategy of minister briefings, which builds on the relationships the NFU has with MPs and keeps farming at the top of the political and policy maker's agenda.

The discussion was concluded with Ms Hayman and Mr Raymond being offered a visit to an arable farm for her and the shadow team, so they can see first-hand the problems farmers face.

Ms Hayman has also held the posts of Shadow Minister (Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) and Opposition Whip in her 12 years as an MP. She is also a Cumbrian county councillor and community relations consultant.