The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has bought the ‘Back British Farming’ message to Birmingham as it shows the best of British agriculture to MPs and delegates at the Conservative Party Conference this week.
At a crucial time for the sector as the Agriculture Bill begins its passage through Parliament, the NFU is highlighting the important role of farmers as food producers and custodians of the countryside.
Delegates are invited to sample the best of British food and drink and will be able to experience harvest in a virtual reality experience in a Massey Ferguson red tractor.
The stand has already been visited by the Prime Minister Theresa May, the Home Secretary Sajid Javid, Defra Secretary Michael Gove, and Business Secretary Greg Clark.
The NFU was also present at the Labour Party Conference last week, where over 550 delegates and politicians pledged their support for the NFU’s Back British Farming campaign.
The stand at the Labour Conference was voted Delegate’s Choice for best stand and was visited by 32 Labour Party MPs, including Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell, Shadow Trade Secretary Barry Gardiner and Shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott.
NFU president Minette Batters said: “It has never been more important to celebrate British food and farming and party conferences offer a unique opportunity to highlight the importance of our industry to decision-makers in Government.
We are entering a significant period for our industry, and it is crucial that the strategic importance of British farming – the bedrock of the UK’s largest manufacturing sector – is recognised by the Government when devising a future domestic agricultural policy.
“I was delighted to see so many MPs support British farming on Back British Farming day recently and I hope to see that support continue as we move through Brexit negotiations and beyond.”
