The AHDB was established in 2008 to help farmers
improve their performance and drive growth, for
instance through knowledge exchanges, improving market
access and marketing activities.
Following a review into its role and function, the
government has today set out a series of
recommendations so the AHDB can be a modern and dynamic
organisation that keeps pace with the needs of
industry. For instance, to give levy payers and
industry a greater say in the future direction of the
AHDB, the government is recommending a ballot every
five years on the future of the levy and the strategy
in each sector. With the AHDB serving a number of
sectors, this will ensure that the levies paid continue
to provide good value for money for farmers and growers
as the industry enters a time of significant change
outside the EU.
The review showed strong support for structuring AHDB
around two central priorities: market development and
improving farm performance. This should allow an
increased focus on business resilience, skills,
environment, reputation and market development at home
and overseas.
These priorities will be increasingly crucial to ensure
British agriculture and horticulture fulfils its full
potential now we have left the EU – whether opening new
export markets for beef and lamb or providing technical
expertise on pest management for cereals and
horticulture.
The government is recommending maintaining the
statutory levy, as the majority of respondents felt
this should continue to support collective endeavours,
such as market access, research and development and
technical advice.
The option of exploring a new governance structure has
also been recommended, to facilitate cross-sector
working and break down communication barriers between
different parts of the organisation.
The government response and recommendations are based
on the evidence gathered during the request for views
and act as a starting point for the AHDB to develop
their policies and structures further in order to
deliver the best service for its levy payers.
The full government response and the publication of the
request for views can be found on GOV.UK.
