NFU President Minette Batters calls for action at NFU conference 2023

In her opening speech at the NFU Conference 2023, NFU President Minette Batters delivered a sobering message on the challenges facing British farmers amid a changing world. Batters began her speech by acknowledging the difficult year since she last stood before the audience, particularly with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine that has had a devastating impact on farmers and the agrarian sector. 

Batters emphasised the increasing global population and the need for British farmers to play a critical role in feeding the world. Drawing attention to the importance of a sustainable approach to farming that preserves the land for future generations. The NFU President made it clear that domestic production must be prioritised to ensure food security, citing the need for safe, affordable, and efficiently distributed food. Calling for greater recognition and value for farmers as food producers. 

Her tone is one of frustration and concern as they discuss the lack of concrete action by the government to back up their words. She starts by highlighting the fact that time is almost up for the government to start delivering on their promises, as the country heads towards a General Election. Expressing their disappointment that despite hearing assurances from MPs and Ministers that farming is a priority for the government, often, it has been difficult to get them to follow through with actions. 

Listing some of the wins that they are proud of, such as securing the establishment of the Trade and Agriculture Commission, the new Food and Drink Export Council, and the placement of eight new agricultural attachés in overseas embassies. Noting the concern that these achievements could have been accomplished six years ago. With the government opting to spend that time prioritising two trade deals with huge agricultural net exporters, Australia and New Zealand. 

The author is particularly worried about the cumulative impact these deals will have on sensitive sectors such as beef, sheep meat, and sugar, and emphasises that they are watching the current negotiations with Canada and Mexico very closely. They also express concern about the progress on ELMS, and the lack of transparency around how the budget is being spent. 

NFU President Minette Batters stressed the importance of supporting food security, safeguarding traditional rural communities, and protecting iconic landscapes. The overall message has a feeling that the NFU is concerned that the country is still in this situation more than six and a half years since the EU Referendum, and the government needs to take concrete actions to back up their words.  

A pressing concern she brought up is the government must take steps to ensure biosecurity and address labour shortages in the farming industry. They urge the government to demonstrate its commitment to food and farming in the country, not just by saying they support it but by showing it through action. 

Highlighting the three cornerstones of boosting productivity, protecting the environment, and managing volatility as critical areas that must be prioritized by the government. Driving home the importance of better productivity, which is necessary for maintaining profitable food-producing businesses and delivering net-zero and resource-use efficiency.