Temple seeks return to NFU high office

Former NFU vice-president Paul Temple, who resigned earlier this year, is to stand for election as the union’s deputy president.

Confirmation that Mr Temple hopes to return to NFU high office came on Friday (27 Nov) after he was nominated by his county’s NFU branch.

The East Yorkshire farmer quit as NFU vice-president in March citing a combination of personal and business reasons.

At the time, he said he could not devote the necessary time and commitment to the role.

The post of deputy president is currently held by NFU deputy president Meurig Raymond.

Union rules mean Mr Raymond would have to 75% of the vote to stay in office because he has already served two consecutive terms.

If he failed to do so, he would be ousted.

Similar rules have been in place since 1946 when the NFU changed its constitution so officeholders could serve indefinitely.

Farm leader Peter Kendall has already confirmed he will run for a third term as NFU president at the union’s elections next year.

He too must secure 75% of the vote to stay in his post.

Office holders will be elected by the union’s 93-strong council immediately after the union’s annual conference and AGM in February 2010.

Candidates must be nominated by 20 NFU members or at a county meeting.

Nominations close on 13 January.