Our food security must be prioritised
A SUMMIT of UK farming unions has urged governments to back farming and food production.
The call comes against a backdrop of increasing unease across industry that environmental targets are being prioritised over food security and agricultural viability.
A joint statement issued by NFU Scotland, Ulster Farmers’ Union, NFU and NFU Cymru, alongside the Irish Farmers’ Association, stressed UK farming unions said: “To safeguard our nation’s food security we need to build profitability and resilience into our farm businesses.
“This requires a closer partnership between farmers and politicians, so we can continue to produce the highquality food that consumers expect, while delivering for the environment and economy.
“Across the UK, there must be a balanced approach at a policy level, not just to look at the environmental side of agriculture, but at the economic and social consequences of agricultural production. Farmers cannot be sacrificed for other societal objectives. They are essential to a healthy world and a healthy population.”
Commenting specifically on the current situation regarding agricultural policy in Wales, which has seen a number of high-profile protests by farmers over environmental demands, the unions said: “Proposals
around a new farming scheme are presently being consulted on within Wales, which is causing huge concern and unrest among Welsh famers.
“Many farmers fear that the proposals, as they stand, are unworkable and unless a different approach is taken,
these plans will severely impact the ambitions of the sector and its viability.”
On demands for politicians ahead of a general election, the organisations added: “Investing in our farming and growing sector is essential for productivity, job creation, and economic and
environmental delivery.
“This year we will see where all UK parties stand on support for local agriculture. Food security must be a top priority for any government, and we need unwavering commitment for local farming and food production from all UK parties.”