NFU win Defra help for flood hit farmers as harvest runs on

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Tuesday, 07, Oct 2008 12:00

Farmers and growers battling to get in crops from saturated fields have been given a life line after Defra announced a further temporary suspension of the rules governing the work while land is wet.

The NFU wrote to Defra last week seeking a further derogation from Secretary of State Hilary Benn on GAEC3 rules, up to the last week of October, as a matter of urgency.

NFU chief arable adviser Guy Gagen said: “We are encouraged the Secretary of State has responded once more to the appalling conditions faced by many of our members again this harvest. This action removes one barrier to gathering in remaining crops and the threat of fines levelled on farmers for bringing home crops while soils are wet.

“Farmers and growers have a natural instinct to look after the soils that support their livelihoods and the NFU encourages its members to record the effects of harvesting in difficult conditions, and what steps were taken later to rectify affected fields.

“Our members do not want to leave remaining crops out any longer than is absolutely necessary at this time of year when days are shortening, temperatures are falling and soils are becoming wetter. They will be taking on considerable extra costs through having to dry wet crops.”

NFU, Agriculture House, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, CV8 2TZ

Press Officer: Sharon Hockley

Telephone: 024 7685 8686 FAX: 024 7685 8651 ISDN: 02476 416289

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The NFU champions British farming and provides professional representation and services to its farmer and grower members.