News

20 Nov 2017

NFU President steps down

The President of the National Farmers Union, Meurig Raymond, has announced he will step down as it has become ‘increasingly clear’ that the Brexit negotiations will outlast his tenure.

In a statement issued to members of the union, he said that he will not be seeking re-election when they go to the polls in February. It marks the end of 14 years as an office holder with the NFU.

Mr Raymond explained, “This has been a very difficult decision for me, but it has become increasingly clear that the complex negotiations for the UK to leave the EU will go well beyond the next two years.

“I have always been clear that I would not want to serve as an officeholder beyond 2020 and so, for the sake of continuity and consistency throughout this critical period for British farming, I believe it is right that I should step back now rather than in 2020.”

Mr Raymond added the union had successfully moved food and farming up the political agenda and continually made a ‘real difference’ for its members. He added, “I am passionate about this industry and I look forward to working hard to represent our farmers and growers as NFU President over the next four months. I will continue to support and champion this great industry in whatever way I can in the coming years.”

The election for the new President will take place at the NFU’s annual conference in February. It has been confirmed that seven candidates, including current NFU Deputy President Minette Batters, will be participating in the NFU leadership elections.

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