Following a statutory review, agriculture ministers from England, Scotland and Wales have agreed that the British Potato Council (BPC) should continue for a further term.
BPC was under review as part of Defra’s ongoing programme to look at the role, organization, funding and function of the UK’s levy bodies, as part of the Government's Rural Strategy.
Defra said it would be making a formal announcement about the arrangements for this review shortly and its findings are expected to be published in the autumn.
It said while the outcome of the review cannot be anticipated, it could lead to fundamental changes affecting the BPC's future role.
Food and Farming Minister Larry Whitty said: “I recognise that the BPC needs to build on and develop the valuable work it has undertaken since its inception in 1997.
“We in Defra will work with the council to address the various issues raised in the course of the recent review and wider issues will be addressed in the proposed review of the role and organisation of all the statutory levy boards in agriculture, the details of which I will be announcing shortly.”
David Walker, chairman of the BPC said: “Naturally I am pleased that this detailed examination of the British Potato Council (BPC) has concluded that it should continue its work on behalf of the industry.
“I welcome the strong endorsement given by the economic evaluation which concluded that the BPC is efficient, focused and well run. Trade and representative organisations also gave positive and constructive input to the stakeholder consultation.
“Obviously we are disappointed that the poll result was not decisive and continues to reflect the polarised nature of our industry and the intense pressures individuals face. This is clearly a challenge that we must continue to address.
“Nevertheless, the poll outcome underlines why retention of a statutory, ‘everyone pays’ levy is necessary if ministers and industry wish to see BPC functions maintained.
“I would urge as many people as possible to read the reports behind this ministerial decision and to play a full part in shaping the future work of the council. Our industry is changing rapidly and the BPC must continue to address evolving industry needs in order to go on delivering value for money and making a real difference.
“The real value of the review is in the debate it stimulates and it has already yielded a number of constructive suggestions on which we will work closely with industry over the coming weeks.”
He continued: “In his announcement, the minister also referred to the forthcoming wider review of levy bodies. We are looking forward to this and will, of course, play our full part in it.
“Many have already expressed their wish to ensure that the potato industry retains a clear identity in whatever structure may evolve and we will work constructively towards this goal. At the same time, if there are ways to achieve synergies and/or reduce costs, then we will grasp these opportunities with enthusiasm.”
