A GOVERNMENT minister came to Rugby to discuss the future of the agricultural industry with local farmers.
Andrea Leadsom, who was appointed Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Minister in Prime Minster Theresa May’s first cabinet, met with local members of the National Farmers Union.
During the meeting, chaired by Rugby MP Mark Pawsey, Mrs Leadsom discussed the importance of agriculture to the economy, plans to promote British produce in trade discussions, and her department’s goals for the Brexit negotiations.
Harry Jolly, Group Secretary of the Rugby, Coventry and Lutterworth Branches of the National Farmers Union, said: “Our members were grateful to be given the opportunity to meet with the minister, and to hear first-hand how Brexit negotiations are progressing.
“Members felt she demonstrated a good knowledge of their industry and were reassured.”
Mr Pawsey added: “Rugby is a rural constituency with a large farming community, so I was delighted to be able to welcome the Secretary of State.
“I have had a number of constructive meetings with the farming community on the challenges for this industry presented by Brexit.
“The agricultural economy often does not receive the recognition it deserves, despite underpinning much of the wider economy.
“I was particularly pleased that Dale Aston of Brinklow Biogas was able to attend. His company, which turns crops into safe and sustainable biofuel, is a great example of the changing nature of farming.
“While no-one should underestimate the challenges of Brexit, I am pleased that Andrea was able to set out a clear and ambitious vision for the future of farming in Britain.”
Mrs Leadsom said: “It was a pleasure to meet local farmers, and a great opportunity to hear directly their priorities, concerns and opinions. I hope they found the discussion as useful as I did.”
