When I joined the National Farmer’s Union as undergraduate trainee in early August the phrase ‘good things come to those who wait’ couldn’t describe my situation any better. I had been searching for a placement position within industry since Christmas as part of my four year degree course studying Agri-Food Marketing with Business Studies, and it wasn’t until July I was made aware of the vacant position within the NFU. Nevertheless, having since had my interview and successfully been offered the job I haven’t looked back. 
My position as undergraduate trainee is based in the Communications department of the organisation allowing me to work between the two departments of campaigns and press office. During my short time at the NFU I have been fortunate enough to attend many interesting and diverse events, none more so than the NFU fringe event at the Conservative Party Conference.
The purpose of the event was to give farmers and the press the opportunity to engage directly with all the agricultural ministers within the coalition government. The conference centred around the theme ‘Why Farming Matters in the Recovery’ a phrase that the NFU have created to highlight the major part agriculture has to play in the economic and financial recovery which Britain now faces.
When I arrived at the conference venue, which was an exclusive and luxurious hotel in the heart of Birmingham, I immediately sensed an atmosphere of upbeat expectation. It was clear that this conference had long been anticipated. It was also a massive opportunity for the new Government to outline and endorse its policies on major issues facing agriculture such as food security, Bovine TB and farming’s impact on the environment.
NFU President Peter Kendall was one of the first to arrive; finding a quiet seat and suitably attired in a blue tie, he prepared his notes for what was to be an evening of intense interaction. He was followed closely by political figures from Westminster, farmers and members of the press. Before the conference got underway there was time to enjoy the bar and buffet, allowing for a more informal engagement between the different bodies before the main event.
By 7pm the conference room was bursting with over 220 guests waiting to speak to the panel of ministers and representatives. Joining Peter Kendall on the panel were Claire Perry MP, Parliamentary under-secretary for DEFRA Richard Benyon, Minister of State for DEFRA James Paice, Secretary of State for DEFRA Caroline Spelman and also Lord Henley. 
As a farmer’s son whose passion in life has always been farming and the lifestyle it offers, I could not help but look on and feel a part of the strong farming community when sitting in my seat. Therefore I was not only there as an undergraduate trainee but someone who was attending on a more personal level.
From what was said on the night, my opinion of the coalition government and it’s stance in agriculture is very positive. The panel of MPs and representatives made it clear that they will not hide away from any threatening issue facing the industry, but will tackle them head on, fighting for a fairer deal for the British farmer. Nevertheless it was also made clear that there were still many uncertainties within the agricultural industry and European legislation will play a strong part in it’s direction in the 21st century.
No comments have been made.