The NFU will quiz the Government on how it plans on delivering its commitment to a long-term economic plan for the food and farming industry, at a Conservative Party Conference fringe event on Monday.

As part of the ‘Food and Farming’ fringe event debate, NFU President Meurig Raymond and Vice President Guy Smith will be joined by Defra Secretary Liz Truss and minister George Eustice.

There, Mr Raymond and Mr Smith will want to know how farmers and growers will fit into the Government’s plan to help: grow the industry; create more jobs; become more resilient; take advantage of new markets; and work with Europe – regardless of the decision of a planned referendum.

NFU President Meurig Raymond said: “We are fortunate to have both the Secretary of State and the farming minister attend our fringe event. I have no doubt that both the NFU members in the audience and myself will be holding them to account on how they plan to deliver their manifesto pledges – including the 11 which matched our own - over the next four years and against a background of severe cuts to Defra’s budget.

“While we appreciate not all policies can be undertaken straight away, we are anxious to see progress on the TB eradication strategy; the national food plan; and legislation to assist those affected by poor commodity prices, such as giving more power to the Grocery Code Adjudicator.”

The debate will be chaired by Farmers Guardian political editor Alistair Driver and it takes place at 7pm at The Great Hall, Manchester Town Hall, Albert Square, in Manchester, M2 5DB.