The National Sheep Association was pleased to share an audience with Defra Minister of State for Food, Mark Spencer for the November meeting of its popular NSA Breakfast Club webinar series.

Welcoming Mr Spencer for one of his first public engagements since his appointment under former Prime Minister Liz Truss and his continued position under new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak NSA the morning meeting attracted a keen audience, emphasised perhaps by recent Government turbulence.

NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: "It was a delight to welcome Mr Spencer to our NSA Breakfast Club especially with such turbulence ongoing in government that has caused some distrust amongst the farming community."

During the webinar many topics were discussed including EU exports, proposed vet attestations for sheep destined for slaughter, trade, and the value of British produce.

Mr Spencer's opening remarks indicated a dynamic approach to food in the UK saying, 'Politicians across government have come to understand the importance of British food and farming.' Continuing by outlining that 'locally produced food is vital for the environment.'

Land use change and tree planting was also debated during the engaging discussion triggering assurances from Mr Spencer that he didn't want to see 'large industry bodies (such as BP, Shell and British Airways) becoming the largest landowners in the race to become carbon neutral.'

Mr Spencer was keen to discuss the pressing issues surrounding the sheep sector highlighting that government must be cautious when taking decisions not to undermine consumer confidence in their food production. When asked about future opportunities and trade it was met with enthusiasm with the Minister saying, 'there is huge opportunity to trade with, and supply different markets across the world,' outlining that he would like to see British agriculture flourish and adapt to meet the demands of an expanding market place.

Mr Stocker also indicated the looming change in regulations meaning a veterinary attestation of health status must accompany animals destined for slaughter, there were also several questions from the audience highlighting the difficulties and practicalities of such a change, Mr Spencer did assure the audience that 'we (the government) are fully engaged with the EU to try and find a solution' and was keen to continue a conversation with NSA.

In closing Mr Spencer said he was 'encouraged by the talent and innovation coming to agriculture,' explaining that 'as an industry we must support the next generation to have the opportunity to enter into farming and unleash the talent that exists.'
NSA thanks Minister Mark Spencer for joining its Breakfast Club webinar. A recording of the session is now available at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/webinars.