The disconnect that exists between Westminster and farmers on the issues of food production and the ‘green agenda’ has been criticised by Aled Jones, president of NFU Cymru.
He spoke at the recent Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) annual dinner, adding: “Last October’s new announcements by the chancellor have served to unify farming across the UK.”
Jones said: “The long-term impacts these matters will have on agriculture are very significant. The four farming unions of the UK have worked very closely together in addressing these important issues.
“We have shared platforms and have carried out analysis on the impacts of the chancellor’s proposed measures. The work has confirmed that the envisaged tax changes will impact across the UK.
“And our argument is not with Stormont, Cardiff or Edinburgh – it is specifically with Westminster on this issue and the lack of understanding that now exists between the government and the entire farming industry.
According to the NFU Cymru president, public recognition of the key role played by farmers has never been greater.
“There is a lack of understanding on the part of government with regard to the important role played by farmers within society,” he said.
“Farmer confidence is extremely low at the present time. Moreover, issues such as the growing spread of bovine tuberculosis are adding to the pressures faced by many farming businesses at the present time.”
“But it’s not all bad news. A recent survey confirmed that up to 86% of the general public in urban areas fully support farmers for the invaluable work they carry out.”
Jones pointed out that new science will always drive production agriculture.
Westminster
He also highlighted the necessity for the UK government to not allow food imports that would be illegal for farmers in the UK to produce because of their associated production standards.
“This was an election pledge made by the Labour party and we will expect this commitment to be fully upheld now that it is in government,” he explained.
“At least we understand that the public fully understand this matter.”
Jones also outlined why food security has become such a pressing concern in recent years.
“The global population back in 1973 was 3.5 billion people. Back then there was enough food in reserve to feed everyone for six weeks.f
“By 2011, the world’s population has doubled and there was enough food in reserve to feed all these people for four days.
“Today, 12 wars are taking place around the world and the issue of food security has never been more significant.”
