RNAA chairman stands down

A brighter future for Norfolk's farming industry will attract young people and secure the prosperity of the countryside for future generations.

That was the farewell message from Henry Cator, who stood down yesterday after 11 years as chairman of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association saying farming was now enjoying an air of optimism after a decade of gloom and doom.

He told 150 members at Easton College that a combination of "rising world population and increasing economic prosperity" would mean a brighter outlook for quality food production.

"For the first time in a long while, farmers are starting to feel valued again. This feelgood factor is so important if we are to attract young people into careers which will secure the prosperity of the countryside for future generations," said Mr Cator.

"Food production is about so much more than just growing a commodity. With unprecedented interest in how food is grown and processed, we as producers have a duty to one another to promote best practice not just in terms of animal welfare but also environmental stewardship."

Mr Cator criticised the lack of joined-up thinking between Whitehall departments and of a long-term strategy to link sustainable development with management of coastal processes and erosion. Where was the long-term commitment for a strategy for investment in key rural infrastructure, he asked?

"We need to have a strong farming industry in Norfolk," he said. "We need to nurture rural communities, encourage young and old alike to have a greater understanding of the fundamental importance of agriculture.