Government Announcements Update: Factory Farming post-Brexit

The UK has some of the strictest farming standards in the world and this is set to continue once we have left the European Union and have the freedom to set our own farming policies.

Michael Gove, Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, made a speech at the end of July setting out that this Government intends to make our exit from the European Union a 'Green Brexit'. In his speech, he made it clear the Government intends to support farmers in their work and will ensure that the highest welfare standards continue to be met as we depart the EU. He said "Farmers produce the high quality food which the rest of us enjoy so much. Without them, our lives would be poorer - and our stomachs emptier. And we are uniquely fortunate that British food enjoys a reputation for quality which has been built on high animal welfare standards, strong environmental protections and the dedication of farmers and growers to meeting ever more demanding consumer expectations." He went on to say "And alongside encouraging greater bio-diversity and the way in which farmers manage their land, I also want to see higher standards across the board of animal welfare."

In the Queen's Speech this year an Agriculture Bill was announced to set the framework for the future of the farming industry. It delivers on the promise in our manifesto to "provide stability for farmers as we exit the EU". I expect it to come to the House over the course of the next two years.