NFU unveils three cornerstones for a new domestic agricultural policy

NFU president Meurig Raymond
NFU president Meurig Raymond

The United Kingdom should forge a 'productive and profitable' agriculture sector as Article 50 is invoked by the Prime Minister today, the National Farmers' Union have said.

The group has published a series of reports setting out its vision for the future of farming in the coming years.

The papers cover key issues that will impact on British farming that 'must be addressed' now EU negotiations have begun.

Productivity, volatility and environmental measures all feature in the report.

"We must use this opportunity to create the conditions for a productive, resilient and sustainable agricultural sector that meets the expectations of the UK public," said NFU president Meurig Raymond.

"The three cornerstones we are proposing all work together to enable farming to be competitive, profitable and progressive and an integral part of a dynamic UK food chain.

"They would enhance the productivity and competitiveness of farm businesses, recognise and reward the environmental goods that farmers deliver, and mitigate volatility where it impacts commercial viability."

New policy

The focus of the policy will be dependent on the deal the government achieves with Brexit.

If the government secures a free trade arrangement with the EU, ensures UK farmers are not disadvantaged by future trade deals outside the EU and ensures the industry's labour needs are met, then the UK can consider an 'ambitious new policy.'

The government has given assurances that farmers will continue to be supported after 2020.

"We believe that farming should maintain current levels of public investment through this new policy framework, but recognise that in the future this may be delivered in different ways, directly or indirectly to farmers, for instance through fiscal incentives, environmental schemes or ensuring farmers benefit from cutting edge developments in R&D," Mr Raymond said.

Today’s report outlining a new Domestic Agricultural Policy complements objectives for the trade, labour and regulatory issues which together form the essentials of a successful farming sector.

Over the coming weeks and months, as the Brexit negotiations get underway, farmers will set out their core principles and expectations of government.