Rural Report 2017: George Eustice discusses Brexit and the future of farming

Trade

One of the big benefits of Brexit, according to those who campaigned to leave the EU, will be the ability to improve our trading relationship with the rest of the world. What and where are the big opportunities that you see for agriculture?

I am determined to see the UK get the best deal possible on leaving the EU – including for our farming industry. Securing a bold and ambitious free-trade agreement with our European partners is a priority – allowing for the freest possible trade in goods and services. I am optimistic about our departure and see it as an opportunity to do business right across the globe.

On the flip side, are you worried that farmers will have to compete with increased volumes of cheaper and lower quality food imports as part of any bilateral trade deals? For example, if the financial sector gets increased access to the US market will we have to allow imports of hormone-treated US beef in return?

British meat has a fantastic reputation around the world for its taste and quality and we are working hard to tap into new international markets and build stronger relationships with trading partners around the world. I was recently in Kuwait to fly the flag for the UK, securing market access for our lamb to this important market.

Maintaining the safety and public confidence in the food we eat is a priority and we will not compromise on animal welfare and food safety. I am clear that future trade deals must work for UK farmers, businesses, and consumers.

Labour

Some farming and horticultural sectors that rely on EU labour are concerned that they will suffer once free movement is restricted. How will you ensure the industry has access to sufficient full-time and seasonal labour?

I fully understand that access and availability of labour is a concern for some sectors of the industry. However leaving the EU and establishing controlled immigration does not mean closing off all immigration – it means we will be able to identify where we have needs and put in place the right arrangements.

Science and technology

Will the UK’s farmers be free to take advantage of GM technology and use chemicals such as neonicotinoids, whose use is restricted by the EU, after Brexit?

Our position remains a science-based approach to both GM and pesticide use. The use of neonicotinoids is restricted and strict controls are in place. Even after leaving the EU, we are committed to ensuring pesticides are available only when the scientific evidence shows they do not pose unacceptable risks to the environment.

Becoming more efficient will be vital for the industry post-Brexit. How will the government encourage the R&D investment that will be needed to make this happen?

I believe leaving the EU is a great opportunity to secure the best possible outcome for the UK research base and ensures we can continue to maintain our global status as a science and research superpower.

Support payments

Given the demands of high-profile departments such as the National Health Service and the ongoing need to cut government spending, it is unrealistic to think that beyond 2020 farmers will continue to receive the same level of financial support currently delivered by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). How do you plan to replace CAP and is it inevitable that some farmers will go out of business?

This government fully recognises the contribution that our farmers make to our economy and the environment and there is no doubt that there will be support for this vital industry after we leave the EU. I remain clear leaving the EU presents a major opportunity for UK agriculture with new opportunities to design policies which work for farmers, the countryside and the environment. Negotiations will take time, but we will be seeking the very best deal for the UK and we will be fighting your corner at every opportunity.

And finally.....

Where do you see the farming industry in 10 years?

I see the UK continuing to be a world-leading food, farming and fishing nation that is growing more, selling more and exporting more of our food around the world whilst ensuring we become the first generation to leave the environment in a better state than we found it.

I am committed to doing all I can to see our agriculture sector grow, become more competitive and more profitable - attracting talented new entrants who can rise to the exciting opportunities ahead. As we prepare to leave the EU, we will be designing a farming system tailored to our needs. We want everyone to have their say as we shape the future of this vital industry.