The Bristol Veterinary School at the University of Bristol and the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) have joined forces in February to stage two workshops which aim to shape new agricultural policies.

The first event, which took place last Friday (February 9), focused on giving farmers a voice in the development and delivery of policy. The second, taking place next Wednesday (February 21), puts animal welfare centre stage.

David Main, Professor of Production Animal Health and Welfare at the RAU, said: “Bristol Veterinary School and the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) are collaborating to produce these workshops, which are aimed at policy makers involved in shaping new agricultural policies of Government, industry and other organisations in the sector.

The first workshop explored the role of farmer-led initiatives in developing innovative technical and policy solutions.

The second policy workshop will focus on animal welfare in future UK agriculture policy including the provision of positive welfare. This will include consideration of the value of animal welfare as a unique selling point for UK agriculture as well as the use of positive welfare as a market differentiation.

Organisers said the primary focus of both meetings is facilitated workshops that explore the opportunities and potential responsibilities for developing these ideas further with industry, Government and other organisations.