Leaving the EU and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)
allows us to decide our own farming policy for the
first time in more than forty years, including a new
system of paying farmers for protecting the environment
and investing in sustainable food production.
The Royal Cornwall Show is one of the biggest
agricultural events in the area - showcasing the best
in local produce and local business. The Minister heard
firsthand from farmers in the county who are often
reliant on seasonal workers due to a large number of
market gardens and flower farms. The Government
recognises the concerns of farmers as we prepare to
leave the EU, given the current reliance on EU workers,
and is working closely with industry to monitor the
latest data on labour supply and demand, including both
permanent and seasonal labour.
Fishermen and fishing industry representatives also
spoke to the Minister on his visit to Cornwall’s second
largest port, Newlyn, about how they think the fishing
industry in the area may be affected by the UK leaving
the EU.
, Cabinet Office
Minister without Portfolio, said:
It was great to visit the Royal Cornwall Show today
and see the very best of what this impressive county
has to offer.
I listened to farmers and fishermen about the
challenges and their hopes for the future. I assured
them that this Government is working hard to make
sure the labour needs of the agriculture sector are
met once we leave the EU and that we will deliver a
profitable and sustainable fisheries industry in the
best interests of the whole of the UK.
Alex Stevens, regional policy manager for the South
West NFU (National Farmers’ Union) said:
Farmers and food producers value this opportunity to
voice the challenges and opportunities that leaving
the EU will present direct to the heart of
government. The recent Health and Harmony
consultation looking at the future of agricultural
policy in the UK has highlighted the role that
farming plays in producing food, maintaining and
enhancing the environment and contributing to the
rural economy, but a viable and profitable sector
depends on much more than this.
Clarity on the future of seasonal and permanent
workers within the supply chain, certainty about
trade deals within the EU and beyond, and meaningful
measures to support top quality, traceable and
dependable domestic food production are all needed.
