CLA advice for farm businesses on ‘no deal’ Brexit

CLA Deputy President Tim Breitmeyer

The UK Government has published technical notices containing advice for farm businesses in case the UK leaves the European Union without a deal.

The CLA represents 30,000 landowners, farmers and rural business who between them own or manage more than 10 million acres across England and Wales.

CLA President Tim Breitmeyer said: “It is encouraging to see the UK Government is making contingency plans in the event of a no deal Brexit. It is important to provide clear and comprehensive guidance to help farmers prepare for the eventuality that the UK leaves the EU without a withdrawal agreement.

“Of particular note is the advice for organic businesses which highlights the extreme consequences of a no deal situation that could impact a number of sectors. UK organic businesses will only be allowed to export to the EU if they are certified by a control body recognised and approved by the EU. The application process could take nine months and can only begin after Brexit, leaving the organic sector in a state of uncertainty about the future.

“All farmers need certainty and do not wish to leave the European Union without an agreement firmly in place which is in the best interests of the industry. We are doing all we can within Europe to encourage our equivalent organisations to support a better deal for both UK and EU farmers.”