How the Government is heading into another clash with farmers
Food security is arguably the biggest and most important challenge facing Britain today. The crisis in the Middle East has raised concern about the security of supply chains and that includes food imported from abroad.
The reality is that Britain has become far too complacent when it comes to food security. Hardworking British farmers have been overlooked in favour of cheap imports. But as the current US-Iran conflict has shown, Britain cannot continue to be blind to the need to support its agricultural sector.
The Government’s agri-food deal with the European Union is on the surface to be welcomed. Especially if it reduces red tape for British farmers.
British farmers will have to align with their European counterparts as part of the SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary) agreement which is slated to come in in 2027.
However, it is concerning that the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has ruled out a transition period for farmers.
As the National Farmers' Union (NFU) has rightly pointed out previously, farming is a long-term business and many farmers will be making decisions right now that will impact food sold beyond half way through next year.
Therefore not having a transition period could once again set the Government on a collision course with farmers. Promises of working with businesses for a smooth transition simply do not cut the mustard. Confidence in this Government is at an all time low amongst farmers. And many within agriculture are also still sceptical about Britain’s relationship with the EU.