The NFU has welcomed commitments from Defra secretary Michael Gove to publicly support the British farming sector on Back British Farming Day.
The NFU’s Back British Farming Day, which took place on 13 September, is a rallying call to encourage MPs to use their position in Westminster to support British farming, particularly in forthcoming Brexit negotiations.
During an interview for this month’s edition of British Farmer and Grower, the NFU’s membership magazine, Gove talked of the government's enthusiasm and desire to back British farming, saying it should support farmers to become more efficient, more productive and more competitive.
He added that during Brexit he wants government to support farmers more than ever, not just to export to new markets, but also to ensure that high quality British produce continues to be sold on domestic and European markets.
Gove will also be wearing a ‘Back British Farming Day’ pin badge, he said, urging fellow politicians to do the same. The pin badges have been sent to all MPs ahead of the event.
NFU president Meurig Raymond commented: “We welcome the secretary of state’s commitments ahead of Back British Farming Day. This support will be critical for the farming sector as Brexit negotiations get underway.
“It’s vital the secretary of state stays true to these commitments and encourages the wider cabinet to champion British farming and ensures agriculture is a central part of the political conversation during Brexit negotiations. We must ensure farming in this country has a thriving future outside of the EU.
“Back British Farming Day provides us with the perfect opportunity to engage with MPs across the political parties to ensure that any decisions taken in parliament reflect the strategic importance of British food and farming to our nation.”
