Minister gains approval from sheep farmers
THE National Sheep Association (NSA) was pleased to share an audience with Farming Minister Mark Spencer for the November meeting of its popular Breakfast Club webinar series.
Welcoming Mr Spencer for one of his first public engagements since his appointment under the former Prime Minister Liz Truss and his continued position under Rishi Sunaks’ leadership, the NSA meeting attracted a keen crowd emphasised perhaps by recent Government turbulence.
Phil Stocker, chief executive of the NSA, said: “It was a delight to welcome Mr Spencer to our NSA Breakfast Club especially with such turbulence ongoing in government that has caused some distrust amongst the farming community.”
During the webinar on Tuesday, November 1, many topics were discussed including EU exports, proposed vet attestations for sheep destined for slaughter, trade, and the value of domestic produce.
Mr Spencer’s opening remarks indicated a dymanic approach to food in the UK, saying: “Politicians across Government have come to understand the importance of British food and farming.” He also outlined how “locally produced food is vital for the environment”.
On the topics of land use change and tree planting, Mr Spencer assured listeners that he didn’t want to see “large industry bodies” such as British Airways, BP and Shell becoming the largest landowners in the “race to become carbon neutral”.
Mr Spencer was keen to discuss the pressing issues surrounding the sheep sector highlighting that Government must be cautious when taking decisions not to undermine consumer confidence in their food production.
When asked about future opportunities and trade it was met with enthusiasm, and he said: “There is huge opportunity to trade with, and supply different markets across the world.” Mr Spencer also outlined that he would like to see UK agriculture “flourish and adapt” to meet the demands of an expanding market place.
Mr Stocker also indicated the looming change in regulations meaning a veterinary attestation of health status must accompany animals destined for slaughter, there were also several questions from the audience highlighting the difficulties and practicalities of such a change, Mr Spencer did assure the audience that “we [the Government] are fully engaged with the European Union to try and find a solution”.
In closing, Mr Spencer said he was “encouraged by the talent and innovation coming to agriculture,” explaining that “as an industry we must support the next generation to have the opportunity to enter into farming and unleash all the talent that exists”.
A recording is now available at www.nationalsheep.org.uk