Today is Back British Farming Day - a day to celebrate farming and all the work that farmers do.
British farmers should be proud to produce food to some of the highest animal welfare and environmental standards in the world, as well as making a positive contribution to our communities and our economy.
Agriculture is uniquely placed to be part of the solution to climate change, as both an emissions source and a sink. British farmers are at the forefront of developing sustainable plant health solutions that will enable them to produce crops that meet the needs of consumers, the environment and profitable farming businesses.
Farmers were rightly identified as key workers during the Coronavirus pandemic. Thanks to those farmers in Hitchin & Harpenden, and the wider food supply chain, we were able to ensure that shelves were kept stocked and the nation was fed during this difficult time. I am extremely grateful for what they have done and continue to do.