Another busy month at the FPC, and July saw us lobbying MPs and MEPs with regard to EU pesticide proposals. Failure to secure a resolution will undoubtedly lead to long-term irreversible consequences for the industry and potentially generate a massive negative impact on the nation’s 5 A DAY habit and subsequent health crisis. This is a gravely serious issue and no time for industry complacency, so I would urge you to ensure you make your voice heard by lobbying your local MP and MEP to demand their support of FPC proposals.

Lincoln University at Holbeach was my destination earlier in the month, to meet up with Richard Turner and take a look around. It was an extremely impressive campus with a wealth of interesting agricultural-based courses and potential for more. Tying in with this, we attended a meeting with Derek Williams, development director of Improve, the Food and Drink Sector Skills Council, to discuss sector skills licensing and the development of identifying skills needs within our industry. There is great potential here with the provision of seeking employers’ knowledge, funding and training to deliver qualifications and apprenticeships, so we will be calling for your help in the near future to assist with this project.

I am delighted to announce that Kenya will be the guest nation at our FPC Annual Dinner 2009, to be held at the Intercontinental London Park Lane on January 31. Kenya is a key member of the FPC and enjoys a prolific exporting relationship with the UK. We anticipate a spectacular evening as the colours and tastes of this vibrant nation collide with the traditions of this formal English event.

I am equally delighted to announce that Anglia Business Solutions has kindly agreed to be the primary sponsor for the second year, and we look forward to working closely with members of David Hurley’s team over the coming months. This fabulous event will take place the Saturday prior to Fruit Logistica, heading up the industry calendar, and organisation is well underway to produce another spectacular event. We are excited to see its popularity grow year on year, and would urge you not to miss this key opportunity to entertain your guests with us.