Archive Article: 1998/01/09
RAD THOMAS
Whatoff Lodge Farm, Quorn, Leics
Farming 271ha (670 acres), managing a further 364ha (900 acres). Combinable crops including oilseed rape and some sugar beet. 300 ewes and 50 suckler cows.
Age: 50
Active in NFU for 30 years. Progressed from local branch chairman to county executive and county chairmanship.
Served on NFU council for 12 years, during which time he was also chairman of Oils, Proteins and Fibres Committee.
CHALLENGES FOR THE NFU:
"The main task ahead is to respond to the EUs Agenda 2000 proposals and restore a position which will allow UK farmers and growers to compete successfully into the next millennium.
"Clearly we have to re-think our relationship with government. Whilst cognisant of their consumer-oriented policies, we have to make the case for farming and the rural community. We will produce whatever the consumer wants, but it cannot be done without a proper return for that effort."