Vision
The NFU champions Britain's farmers and growers.
Getting the message across
The IPPC Directive, pesticides regulation, the CAP Health Check, climate change legislation, calls for a supermarket ombudsman, sheep EID, the Upland Entry Level Scheme, coastal access...just a few of the current crop of issues where the NFU is actively involved in setting the agenda, or lobbying hard to amend legislation or proposed legislation.
The teams in Brussels and London are a vital part of that work. Our vision is one where the voice of British Farming is heard at the highest levels.
Bringing quality produce to the market
We continue to work to ensure the food you eat is safe, affordable and of the highest possible quality.
The NFU spearheaded the Red Tractor - Assured Food Standards initiative, so that when you buy food bearing the logo, you have total peace of mind that it's been produced under the strict controls of an independently accredited, world class, whole chain assurance scheme.
For more information on the Red Tractor scheme, see our Beyond the Farm section.
Moving forwards - Why Science Matters
Why Science Matters for Farming combines a celebration of scientific progress through the history of our industry with calls for a refocusing of Government priorities and research funding to reflect the particular challenges of the 21st century, among them producing more food while at the same time reducing the environmental impact. More here
Caring for the countryside
We believe that a thriving, beautiful countryside is one of the most important aspects of our national heritage. We are determined to maintain it and to meet the challenge of producing wholesome, high-quality food while protecting wildlife and the environment. In the last 12 month, cross-team working between the NFU's environmental experts has covered issues such as possible set-aside mitigation measures and the implementation of IPPC. Flood prevention, challenges to Defra's NVZ proposals, the EU Nitrates Directive, the draft Marine Bill and the Soil Framework Directive have also been on the agenda.
Caring for the welfare of our animals
Caring for the health and welfare of our animals is an integral part of livestock husbandry. We are committed to raising animal welfare standards across Europe.
Most of all we recognise the right of our customers to have accurate information about how food is produced. We take every opportunity to provide this information and to answer your questions.
Adapting to change
In September 2008, 60% of English farmers surveyed as part of our Farming Futures project said they were already affected by climate change. More than half expect to be affected in the next ten years. We believe an understanding of the issues and solutions is important if risks are to be limited and opportunities seized. Our Farming Futures site has a host of information.
