Farming minister to set out plans for sector at next week’s Dairy-Tech
27th January 2023
Former dairy farmer and Defra farming minister Mark Spencer will take to the stage at next week’s Dairy-Tech on 1st February at Stoneleigh Park, setting out government plans for the sector.
Mark Spencer, former dairy farmer and Defra farming minister
It will be one of the first major farm events Mr Spencer has attended since he took the role in September last year.
It is expected he will highlight in his keynote address at 10:30am the importance of the industry moving towards a more sustainable, resilient food system in a bid to feed a growing population, halt the decline of nature by 2030 and achieve net zero.
It is hoped he will also give some insight into the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), what it really means for dairy farmers and the application process.
Commenting ahead of the minister’s visit, RABDF managing director Matt Knight said: “There have been many mixed messages around the SFI over the last few months. We hope Mr Spencer will be able to outline exactly what is happening and what is needed so farmers can make an informed choice about support payments and management decisions in the future.
“There will also be the opportunity for delegates to next week’s event to pose questions to the Minister during the State of the Dairying Nation debate at 10:45am, so it’s definitely a session not to be missed.”
The minister will also be taking a look around the show and will visit some exhibitors showcasing the latest agri tech.
Mr Knight added: “We hope, by visiting Dairy-Tech, Mr Spencer will get a flavour of our hard-working and vital industry and all it offers. He must understand what’s working and the challenges we are witnessing, such as the labour shortage.”
To find out more about Dairy-Tech 2023, secure your discounted tickets when bought before the show and to get the full list of 300 exhibitors, visit dairy-tech.uk
