Members of the National Farmers Union met with Central Devon MP Mel Stride today in Cheriton Bishop. On the agenda were the Government’s 25 Year Environment Plan and the Agriculture Bill that will determine future UK agriculture policy after the UK leaves the European Union. The meeting took place at the Devon YFC Rural Hub which supports the farming and rural communities by providing desk, office and meeting spaces for rural organisations and businesses.
Mel, who was promoted to Leader of the House of Commons by the Prime Minister the day before the meeting, said:
“It was good to catch up with farmers from across the constituency and have an opportunity to discuss the role that farmers will be in improving our environment over the next 25 years. Too often farmers are only thought of in terms of their produce but they have a vital role to play as custodians of our land, rivers, woodland and of wildlife habitats. It was also useful to discuss agriculture policy post-Brexit and the importance of bringing more young blood into the farming industry as a whole.”
A Green Future: Our 25 Year Plan to Improve the Environment was published on 11 January 2018. It’s key goals are:
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Clean air
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Clean and plentiful water
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Thriving plants and wildlife
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A reduced risk of harm from environmental hazards such as drought and flooding
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Using resources from nature more sustainably and efficiently
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Enhanced beauty, heritage and engagement with the natural environment
