Thirty-six organisations representing the UK’s food and farming industry have set out what a successful Brexit means to them and to promote a unified voice to government from across the food sector in a joint statement1.

This comes after representatives met at the National Farmers Union event at it its headquarters to discuss common ground in the industry.

Delegates were united in their view that a thriving domestic food and farming base is central to the future environmental, social and economic health of the country. They agreed that their sector will continue to have a critical role in providing a secure, affordable and trusted supply of food.

NFU Cymru President, John Davies, said: “This statement is a strong signal urging government to recognise the crucial role the food supply sector will continue to play in post-Brexit Britain.

“In providing people with a safe, secure and affordable supply of food to some of the highest welfare and environmental standards in the world; in managing over 70 per cent of the UK landmass that is farmed; in providing 3.9 million jobs in industries both pre- and post-farmgate; and in contributing to two of the UK economy’s big success stories: UK manufacturing and retail.

“The government must ensure it supports these vital advantages delivered by UK food and drink businesses as it negotiates our withdrawal from, and future relationship with, the EU."