Oxford Farming Conference 2025: Facing Change, Finding Opportunity
The Secretary of State, Steve Reed provided warm words to the sector and outlined the Governments vision for a thriving agricultural sector with food production at its heart. In between what was a genuine call for closer collaboration between industry and government, the Minister made some real announcements.
He acknowledged that farmers should exist in an environment that provided the opportunity to grow profitable businesses. To this end he announced a 25 year “New Deal” for farming, driven by Technology and an ability to diversify whilst restoring nature. He promised new legislation on precision breeding by the end of March, a slashing of the more than 150 pieces of legislation controlling what happens on farm, including planning reform and delivering the manifesto pledge that 50% of public procured food will come from UK producers.
Commenting on the Ministers speech Robert Sheasby, AIC Chief Executive said “We welcome the announcements the Minister has made today particularly his reaffirmation that food production will be at the heart of a thriving sector. We will pursue clarity on the details of the Adopt fund, the Land Use Framework and Food Strategy as we continue to work with government in creating an environment in which businesses can thrive”
Three members of the team represented AIC at the Conference:
Robert Sheasby
John Kelley
John Kelley is Chief Operating Officer, AIC, Managing Director, AIC Services.
Vicky Robinson
Vicky Robinson is Head of Sustainability and is responsible for leading and co-ordinating AIC's work on sustainability.