Dr Neil Hudson MP hosted a group of young farming champions to Parliament to discuss the future of the agricultural sector.
The National Farmers Union (NFU) Student and Young Farmer Ambassadors are 11 young people leading the way in the wider agricultural sector.
With a spread of roles across the industry, the group includes dairy, poultry, beef, sheep, arable and cut flower farmers as well as agricultural solicitors, shepherds and vet technicians. The group also represent regions across England and Wales from Longtown in Dr Hudson's constituency to the Isle of Wight.
You can read more about the programme and the Ambassadors here: www.nfuonline.com/updates-and-information/nfu-student-young-farmer-ambassadors-2024
Dr Hudson facilitated a tour of the Houses of Parliament for the group before they held a discussion about issues facing young people in the sector and Dr Hudson's work trying to find solutions.
The varied discussion included topics such as rural crime, land-based education, over-reaching solar developments, mental health and farm inspections. Dr Hudson promised to take comments on board as he seeks to better agricultural policy at the heart of government.
Speaking afterwards, Dr Neil Hudson MP said:
"It was a genuine delight to meet with such an engaged, caring and thoughtful group of younger farmers and growers. While I'm under no illusions regarding the challenges that the sector has been through of late, I'm absolutely reassured it is in good hands moving forward.”
"From bolstering land-based education and improving the mental health of farmers to overcoming animal diseases and preventing rural crime - the discussion was vital to improving policy and supporting the sector.
"Meeting young folk on the front line of farming and hearing about their experiences is incredibly useful to me in my role as Member of Parliament and for our EFRA Select Committee work. I thank everyone for sharing their ideas, concerns and passions for such a vital industry and they have my assurances I will keep banging the drum for them in Parliament and beyond."
NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassador, and Dr Hudson's constituent, Ed Harrison said:
“As a constituent of Dr. Hudson MP, it was great to meet him with my fellow young farming colleagues in Westminster to chat about all things British agriculture. Discussions included important issues such as mental health, rural crime and access to land.
“The tour was very interesting, and I enjoyed learning all about how the House of Lords has specialist members, including specialists in agriculture.”
NFU Student & Young Farmer Ambassador Jess Stewart said:
“It was brilliant to visit the Houses of Parliament and learn more about the history of both houses, as well as the functionality of how laws and policies are made.
“We really appreciate Dr. Hudson MP taking the time to speak to us about the future of British farming. He was very knowledgeable about the current and long term issues facing the industry and was open to feedback on how to better the sector for the next generation.”
