Commenting late last week, after striking the deal, Defra Minister of State George Eustice said the global demand for British traditional breeds is behind the deal, and linked this with a reputation for high welfare and traceability in Britain.

As Brexit nears and ministers begin preliminary talks with potential trade partners, there appears to be a split within the ruling Conservative party, and even between members of Theresa May’s cabinet. Some, including Defra Secretary Michael Gove, have expressed support for maintaining standards and protecting British producers from exposure to imports produced using methods of production that would be banned in the UK (and EU) in post-Brexit trade deals, whereas others, including trade secretary Liam Fox, appear to be keen to open up Britain to uninhibited free trade, and to meat and animal products from regions with lower welfare and safety standards. 

Commenting on the Philippines deal on Friday, NFU chief livestock adviser John Royle said, “Prospects for the British beef exports with the right trade deal are positive. We produce a quality product in a welfare conscious and environmentally responsible manner, that should be recognised and promoted to help secure access and sell British product into these new markets.

“In 2016 overall beef and veal exports were up 10% on 2015, at 110,300 tonnes. As world demand for red meat grows, especially from the developing economies in the Far East, British farmers have the ability to sustainably increase production to meet some of that demand.

“The Philippines announcement comes at just the right time, when our members are seeking government and supply chain support to seek out new opportunities. Opening up new markets for British meat and gaining increased access to international markets is going to be a major focus, particularly with the uncertainty for farmers  post-Brexit.”

Mr Royal said, “While access to the Philippines has been agreed, it will still take time to develop this new market for British beef. We will be looking for continued help from both the government and Agricultural and Horticultural Development Board (AHDB) to help exporters reach the predicted sales value of £34m.”