Responding to the announcement of a general election on July 4,
NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: “This general election may well
be the most important in a generation for British food and
farming. The stakes are very high. If the next government gets it
right then this huge sector can grow, contributing even more to
the UK economy, to the health and welfare of Britons and to the
environment. But farming and growing is under huge pressure.
“Confidence is the currency that forms the foundation of feeding
the country and it is currently at rock bottom; after months of
devastating flooding, high production costs and low market
returns, and against a backdrop of reformed farm support as we
transition to a new domestic agriculture policy. Farmers and
growers need the policies in place that will rebuild confidence
and deliver a thriving, profitable farming sector delivering for
food security as a key part of our national security.
“The NFU will be engaging with candidates from all political
parties over the coming weeks to promote our election manifesto and
ensure every prospective MP understands the importance of
boosting home-grown food production as well as the work farmers
and growers carry out 365 days a year caring for the environment,
providing a home for nature and providing solutions to the
challenges of climate change.
"What farmers, growers and the public need to see is practical
policies which invest in a future where Britain's farmers and
growers can continue producing sustainable, affordable food,
driving forward economic growth, providing jobs, and delivering
on the nation's environmental ambitions.”
