Minette Batters: Championing Farmers
Brexit has placed farmers at the forefront of political discussions, with Minette Batters, the former president of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), sharing insights into the challenges faced by the agricultural sector.
A Turbulent Tenure
During her six-year tenure, Batters navigated a landscape marked by Brexit, Covid-19, fluctuating input costs, and climate change. She encountered turnover in government leadership at the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), each change bringing its own set of challenges.
A Political ‘Tornado’
Batters recalls her interactions with government officials, highlighting instances where the NFU’s stance was misrepresented for political gain. She emphasizes the need for transparent and collaborative policymaking to address the sector’s pressing issues.
A Call for Clarity
Batters advocates for clear food production targets, a robust seasonal worker scheme, and thorough impact assessments on trade deals. She stresses the importance of aligning government policies with the needs of NFU members to ensure a sustainable future for farming.
Challenges Ahead
Batters raises concerns about the lack of a comprehensive agricultural strategy and its impact on mental health within the farming community. She underscores the need for long-term planning and support for farmers facing uncertainty in the current political climate.
Building a Resilient Future
Looking ahead, Batters calls for a shift in government priorities to prioritize food production and ensure resilience in the face of external challenges. She emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to farming that values the contributions of farmers and encourages new talent to enter the industry.
Influencing Change
While Batters remains committed to advocating for farmers’ interests, she expresses a preference for non-partisan engagement, ruling out a career in traditional politics. She remains open to opportunities to influence policy and promote sustainable practices within the agricultural sector.
