The NFU has given a broadly positive welcome to the EU trade deal, although the organisation says questions remain around the issue of dynamic alignment and the protection of policy areas such as precision breeding.
The organisation has been lobbying for an enhanced SPS agreement for some time and considers an outline SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary) agreement as an early positive. It expects improved terms of trade, reducing barriers for UK farmers and growers to export to the EU.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: “We have always sought a strong trading relationship with the EU, which reduces friction at a time of global instability. But, since 2020, farming and growing businesses have been faced with significant costs, burdensome paperwork and additional checks in order to trade with partners on the continent.
“The government has clearly listened to these concerns. With the scope to remove Export Health Certificates and cumbersome controls at the border, this deal will deliver many benefits for agri-food exports to the EU.
“However, there remain important questions about what is within the scope of this agreement and, where current rules and regulations do differ, if there will be any exclusions. As negotiations in this area continue, it’s vital that our government safeguards the progress we have made in policy areas such as precision breeding to enable the farming sector to continue to move forward in sustainable, resilient and innovative food production.”
The NFU is calling for the Precision Breeding Bill to be top of the government’s agenda, something also being considered by the EU. “This exciting policy area will help improve resilience to climate change, enhance productivity and deliver nutritious food,” added Tom.
The NFU is urging the government to protect the UK’s ability to make crucial regulatory decisions in this area, alongside others, and foster continued innovation and research.
“We have always argued that trade with the EU must be based on equivalency,” Tom continued. “Despite the benefits this deal brings, full dynamic alignment comes at a significant cost of committing to future EU rules, in which the UK will have little say.
“We know today’s announcement is only the start of further negotiations, and we ask our government to ensure any agreements made enable a thriving future for British farming and underpin our nation’s food security.”
To see the NFU response in full, visit: https://www.nfuonline.com/updates-and-information/uk-eu-summit-announcement/
