NFU Summer Reception keeps farming on Westminster agenda

NFU President Minette Batters and Defra Secretary of State Michael Gove both delivered speeches.

During her remarks, Mrs Batters re-emphasised that leaving the EU without a deal would be catastrophic for British farming and called on farming champions in Parliament to help avoid this scenario in the months ahead.

Defra Secretary of State Michael Gove speaking at the 2019 NFU Summer Reception

In his speech, Mr Gove said that the quality of the food produced in the UK should be protected in future trade deals, and referred to ongoing work with the NFU to develop a commission to ensure this.

The event brought together officeholders and senior staff from the NFU, NFU Cymru, NFU Scotland and the Ulster Farmers Union.

Other attendees included Tom Watson, deputy leader of the Labour Party and several ministers including Therese Coffey (Defra) and Victoria Atkins (Home Office).

Thanks to Simon Hoare (Conservative MP for North Dorset), who sponsored the use of the Terrace for the event.

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