Commitment welcomed from new Brexit Secretary to work with NFU

This comes after Mr Davis said it is “common sense” to consult with the NFU earlier this week.

NFU President Meurig Raymond said: “It’s heartening to hear that David Davis has expressed a commitment to consult with the NFU. Farming is the bedrock of the food and drink sector worth £108 billion and supports jobs for 3.9 million people.

“We have an exciting, dynamic industry, keen to capitalise on new opportunities. The NFU is the only organisation to commission a report looking at the potential opportunities and challenges for farming and food production in the event of a Brexit vote – this work will be vital going forward.

“The report, from the Dutch Wageningen University, will be shared with Mr Davis and I am looking forward to working with him to develop a new domestic agriculture policy that encourages growth, innovation, productivity and profitability – one that bases its decisions on science and adapts to the needs of British farmers. Mr Davis’ role in this is crucial.

“The NFU is holding the largest consultation with its membership in a generation with farmers and growers from across the country and from all sectors feeding into this conversation.

“Farming is an innovative and public-focused growth sector and my aim for this huge piece of work with our membership is to help shape the new domestic farm policy to ensure we maximise on those opportunities for a productive, profitable and competitive agriculture in the years to come.”