The pressures facing UK sheep farmers were recognised by new Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner this week at the National Sheep Association (NSA) Sheep Event 2024 with reassurance given to the full seminar tent of visitors of his ambition to create a better future for the industry.
Focussing on a sustainable future for the sector, the flagship event of the NSA, which took place at the Three Counties Showground, Worcestershire, attracted prominent names from industry to lead seminar discussions including Mr Zeichner, who joined NSA chief executive Phil Stocker ‘in conversation’ for the NSA Breakfast Club Live.
The Minister took questions in the session stating that he welcomed the opportunity to listen and learn from an event full of farmers, more knowledgeable than he about the sheep sector in particular.
With concerns raised of the future of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), food security, sheep health and the rewilding agenda, the seminar provided much for both the audience and the Minister himself to take away for further thought.
Mr Stocker said: “I have been impressed by the level of interest Mr Zeichner has shown in his time as Shadow Minister and since his confirmation in post following the general election.
“The opportunity to speak with him to highlight the serious issues facing the sector was incredibly valuable and it was encouraging to hear reassurances given that seem to place him on the same page as NSA concerning several issues. NSA thanks Mr Zeichner for joining us and now look forward to working with him to ensure the voice of the UK sheep industry continues to be heard loud and clear.”
A main topic of discussion was the SFI where Mr Zeichner asserted that the Labour Government would not overturn progress made with the new scheme by the previous government, but he recognised that there were issues with it that would need to be rectified, in particular to those farming in upland areas.
The need to ensure future support is tailored to individual farmers’ circumstances was also emphasised.
