Kate writes a bi-weekly column for the Burton Mail. This column was originally featured in the 24th February print edition.
Farming is an integral part of our local community. Across Burton and Uttoxeter, farmers, producers and all those in the agriculture sector, work all year round to ensure we can put food on the table and that Staffordshire is one of British food and drink's key locations for high quality products. It is also the case, that at this time of year, one of the most enjoyable things to do locally is to visit the National Forest Adventure Farm to see lambing season.
Earlier this week, the Prime Minister spoke at the National Farmers Union conference in Birmingham to highlight the Government’s commitment to farming and what more is being done to support British farmers.
Firstly, the Government is reviewing food supply chains, so farmers get paid fairly for their produce. I know shoppers want to know that British growers get paid fairly by supermarkets for their work and so this review will strengthen the law for the dairy sector, building on the reviews already underway into eggs, pigs and fresh produce.
Secondly, the Government is committing to investing in profitable, resilient farming businesses through a new grants scheme. This will be the launch the largest ever grant offer, totalling £220 million, investing in new technology and equipment, robotics, rooftop solar, slurry storage and beyond.
In addition to this, the Government is rolling out its new farming schemes which reward sustainable farming practices, with nearly half of all farmers now signed up. This rewards farmers who take care of our environment and support the biodiversity our green and pleasant land provides a home to.
The past few years have been an unprecedented time for our farmers, with global impacts from the illegal invasion of Ukraine alongside significant flooding. That is why the Government will continue to back farmers who proudly produce some of the best quality food in the world, keeping us fed while stewarding our beautiful countryside.
