NFU welcomes first chair designate of levy board

NFU deputy president Meurig Raymond today welcomed the announcement of John Bridge as chair designate of Levy Board UK.

Mr Raymond said: “It gives me great pleasure to welcome John Bridge into his new role. It is an extremely important appointment for the industry and the NFU wish him well and offer him our support and assistance.”

In his new role, Mr Bridge's first job will be to push forward with the Fresh Start process.

Fresh Start will decide the form and function of the sector companies, and is a great opportunity for levy payers to ensure their levy is spent in a relevant, efficient, and effective manner.

Mr Bridge together with three independent board members will make up the shadow board of Levy Board UK after the appointment of the sector company chairs. The board will be responsible for the implementation of the Fresh Start levy system.

The NFU will be working closely with the new shadow board, and has already launched a series of regional meetings, and sector board discussions, to lead the debate.

In a call to the farming and growing industry, Mr Raymond said: “This is a process that every levy sector producer should be involved in. Whether livestock, pigs, cereals and oilseeds, potatoes, or horticultural producer, I urge you to take part in this process.”