NFU president Minette Batters said the Brexit transition terms announced yesterday were a “welcome assurance” after months of uncertainty for farmers.
David Davis, secretary of state for exiting the EU, agreed draft terms with EU negotiator Michel Barnier confirming that the transistion period will last from 29 March 2019 to December 2020, during which time the UK may negotiate and sign new trade deals.
The Brexit document revelaed the UK would cease to be part of the Common Agricultural Policy as of 2020, when the EU Basic Payment Scheme will cease. Minette Batters said the UK ought to remain in the EU customers union until a free trade deal is struck.
“Today’s announcement helps to have a bit more certainty for our farming businesses although clarity on the details is key. There is still outstanding vital information which food and farming businesses need to understand,” Batters said.
“It’s vital that there is a smooth transitional period for the farming industry, avoiding any cliff-edge scenario. This is best achieved by retaining membership of the EU Customs Union until a settled free trade relationship comes into force.
“We also understand that Government will pay the 2019 BPS scheme on the same basis as now – a welcome assurance for our farmers making business decisions now such as for planting and animal rearing. We look forward to working with Government as it introduces its own reforms to the farm payments system from 2020 - one that supports farms that are profitable, productive and competitive.”
