A leading pig group has sent cook books to the Prime Minister, Michael Gove and David Davis in a bid to highlight the unique challenges facing the industry.
The National Pig Association (NPA) said that food for thought – based on fantastic British Red Tractor pork – might be in order.
It sent cook books to the Prime Minister Theresa May, Defra Secretary Michael Gove, Brexit Secretary David Davis, Trade Secretary Liam Fox and other key political figures.
The early Christmas presents are full of recipes put together by Ladies in Pigs (LIPs), along with information explaining why British pork should be at heart of all festive feasts.
A letter to Mrs May from NPA chairman Richard Lister accompanying the gifts thanked the Prime Minister for her Government’s ongoing engagement this year with the NPA.
It added: “Like many other agricultural sectors, we have a unique set of challenges facing us as a result of Brexit; however I am sure you will agree that the UK’s pig sector stands well positioned to make the most of the many opportunities offered by the UK leaving the European Union.
“From rationalising better targeted UK based legislation, to helping pig producers improve the productivity, innovation, health and welfare of their animals to opening up new export markets around the world, we at the NPA believe that 2018 can be a very promising year for our industry.
“Our message is to enjoy the festive period with the help of some truly great British Red Tractor pork dishes – and then hopefully cook up something the British pig industry can benefit from as the Brexit negotiations unfold in 2018.
“There is, of course, a serious message here, too. Few sectors will be affected more by the Brexit deal than the iconic British pork industry. We are a forward-looking important sector of the economy that delivers a great product to high standards – the NPA will strive to ensure Brexit becomes an opportunity for further growth, rather than a threat to this vital sector.”
