Former MP appointed chair of Red Tractor cereals board

Former Conservative MP Julian Sturdy has been appointed as the new chairman of the Combinable Crops & Sugar Beet Board at Red Tractor.

During his parliamentary career, Mr Sturdy served on the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Efra) committee and chaired the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Science and Technology in Agriculture.

He also brings hands-on farming experience, managing a 300ha arable enterprise in North Yorkshire, growing both combinable crops and sugar beet.

See also: Red Tractor’s new chairman vows to rebuild farmer trust

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Sturdy said he was honoured to take up the role a such a “pivotal time” for farming.

He added: “As a grower myself, I understand first-hand the challenges our sector faces, from evolving market demands to the need for robust, trusted assurance standards.

“I look forward to working closely with growers and the wider industry to ensure their voices are heard and to help drive positive change.

“Together, we can continue to uphold the high standards that underpin Red Tractor and deliver value for British farmers and consumers.”

His appointment comes as Red Tractor seeks to rebuild trust and engagement with farmers, after an independent review of farm assurance called into question its leadership and pushed for a major overhaul.

As sector board chairman, Mr Sturdy will also sit on the Red Tractor board of directors and will play a role in determining how the organisation moves forward.

Red Tractor chairman, Alistair Mackintosh, said: “We are delighted to welcome Julian as our new Crops & Sugar Beet Sector Chair.

“His unique combination of practical farming experience and policy expertise will be invaluable as we work to ensure Red Tractor members are proud to be part of our scheme and that our standards remain trusted at home and abroad.

Mr Sturdy succeeds Norfolk farmer Kit Papworth, who has since taken up the role as chair of NFU Sugar.