The National Farming Union (NFU) took the opportunity to have dialogue with Labour MP’s regarding the future of British agriculture at the recent Labour Party conference in Liverpool on 28th September.
The Labour Party conference took place from Sunday 25th September to Wednesday 28th September and the NFU attended to gain support for its #BackBritishFarming campaign.
NFU President Minette Batters said it is “crucial” that politicians from all parties “recognise the value” of British agriculture and what more can be done with the right policies in place.
She added that food policy will also be “crucial” at the next general election.
An analysis from head of political polling at Opinium Research, Chris Curtis, further explained to the conference how important the rural vote will be at the next general election.
Discussions
Raised topics at conference ranged from immediate ways to support farmers who are contending with rising input costs through to farm workers getting a fair wage. Procurement and the importance of “championing” British goods was also highlighted.
NFU representatives spoke to Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer to discuss the future of British agriculture, plus Labour MP Alison McGovern to highlight the importance of food security, and shadow climate and net zero secretary Ed Miliband, regarding enhancing nature alongside producing food.
Shadow DEFRA secretary Jim McMahon commented: “I want to raise the profile of farming as a place to work and as a career.” In response NFU said it is “great to hear” that Jim McMahon wants to encourage new entrants.
This story was originally published on a previous version of the Meat Management website and so there may be some missing images and formatting issues.
