New NFU chief Minette Batters called on British consumers to “shout loudly and with pride” about UK produce in her first keynote speech as president.
Batters told the audience in Westminster that she is urging the government to usher in a “new dawn for the countryside”, agreeing with her predecessor Meurig Raymond, that there must be “frictionless” trade with Europe.
Batters said: “Today, I am calling on the whole of Government to help us put Britain on the global map when it comes to farming. I want to be involved in Brexit trade negotiations, and for farming to be the first to take its place in this new buyers' market.
“However, we must not turn our back on the EU market, it remains crucial for British farmers, with 40% of our lamb, 80% of our dairy exports and 75% of our wheat and barley exports currently going into Europe. It is vital we have zero-tariff, frictionless trade with the EU market place.
She affirmed the importance of upholding Britain’s high standards and regulations, stating she wanted British farms to be the producer of choice for British citizens.
“We know the British people expect high animal welfare standards, responsible environmental stewardship and good quality, traceable and affordable food. Our own UK market has demanded ever greater food safety regulation and as farmers and growers we've risen to that challenge - that's why we believe that the food we produce is a public good.
“I want British farming to be the food producer of choice for every British citizen, no matter who they are, where they live and regardless of their income. More than that British people should want to shout loudly and with pride about the food, we as an Island nation, produce.”
