Second Farm to Fork Summit returns for 2024
By Andrew Heskin, Partner and ARA specialist
On Tuesday, 14 May, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to welcome a diverse group of farmers and industry representatives to 10 Downing Street for the second annual UK Farm to Fork Summit.
This pivotal event, which aims to discuss and develop sustainable agricultural practices, will bring together key stakeholders from across the sector, including ministers, National Farmers’ Union (NFU) officeholders, and delegates from various trade bodies such as the National Sheep Association.
Last year’s summit set a high precedent, featuring notable participants like Kaleb Cooper from Clarkson’s Farm, and it catalysed a series of Government support packages that aimed to bolster the agricultural sector.
These initiatives included a £1 million dairy export programme and the issue of 45,000 temporary visas for seasonal workers, which were crucial for addressing labour shortages during critical farming periods.
The upcoming summit has already sparked discussions and anticipations within the agricultural community as farmers look to address the numerous challenges faced over the past year.
This includes the exceptionally wet winter and spring, volatility in international markets, and ongoing pressures within supply chains.
The agenda for the 2024 Farm to Fork Summit is expected to tackle these pressing issues and explore effective strategies that the Government can implement to support the farming industry, particularly focusing on tenant farmers.
As the industry looks forward to the outcomes of this summit, many are hopeful that it will lead to visible improvements and support, similar to the initiatives launched following last year’s gathering.
Discussions are anticipated to cover a range of topics, including the sustainability of farming practices, the impact of climate change on agriculture, and the role of technological innovation in enhancing productivity and environmental care.
The Farm to Fork Summit is not only a platform for policy development but also an opportunity for stakeholders to collaborate on future-proofing the UK’s food systems.
As preparations for the summit continue, the agricultural community remains keen on engaging with the Government to foster a robust and sustainable future for farming in the UK.