Young farmers urged to share views about future post-Brexit farming policy

The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) have launched a new post-Brexit online survey to ensure young peoples’ views are considered as part of a future British Agricultural Policy.

The survey is open to all Young Farmers’ Clubs’ (YFC) members and those interested in supporting young people in agriculture.

The feedback will be essential in helping NFYFC to push forward the views of the industry’s next generation when it meets with Defra in October ahead of a new British Agricultural Policy.

The survey is also being supported by a 'Know Your Future Market Forum', in October, which will involve young farmers and industry leaders discussing future opportunities in agriculture following the Brexit result.

The event includes presentations and discussion groups to highlight where young farmers can get support to grow businesses

Speakers include Clarke Willis, the CEO of Anglia Farmers Group, Adam Quinney from AHDB and Anthony Davison from BigBarn CIC.

Upcoming young farmers Jock Muirhead, Russell Carrington and Sam Dilcock will highlight their business journeys and aspirations.

'Uncertainty in agriculture'

Sam Dilcock, NFYFC’s Agriculture and Rural Issues (AGRI) group chairman, said Brexit has created "a lot of uncertainty" in agriculture.

"YFC members represent the future of the industry, and NFYFC believes it is imperative to actively seek the views from those who will be affected," Mr Dilcock said.

"We are encouraging all young farmers and anyone supporting young people in the industry to go online and share their views in the survey.

"Collaboration is a theme that runs through our work and we want to reflect this in the way we stimulate members and like-minded people to put their ideas forward.

"We will continue that process to ensure our voices are heard to help shape a vibrant and collaborative future British agricultural policy."