NFU pleased with harvest talks

THE NFU has held what it calls “constructive” talks in which DEFRA promised to look at the practicalities of bringing forward support payments to help arable farmers.

In a meeting lasting two hours Arthur Hill, chairman of the combinable crops board, updated DEFRA on the areas which had been worst affected by August‘s bad weather.

It was agreed at the meeting, which took place on Wednesday morning (Sept 1), that the next seven days will be absolutely crucial for this year‘s harvest.

If the weather holds it might be possible for most farmers to lessen the impact of one of the wettest summers on record, said the NFU.

Because of this, it was decided that while a window of opportunity remains open it would be inappropriate to bring forward any assisted payments at this stage.

But as a result of discussions, DEFRA officials agreed to examine the practicalities of bringing forward such payments.

Mr Hill said the union was able to raise a number of concerns and highlight some of the real difficulties faced by some of its members.

“We agreed that it was difficult to bring forward assisted payments at this stage while it is still possible for some farmers to rescue this year‘s harvest.

“The decision to examine the practicalities of bringing forward payments, should they become necessary, is a step forward.”