Last week our historic Agriculture Bill passed into law.
This is a hugely exciting moment, not just for farmers, but for everyone who cares about our environment and the food we eat.
I know how important farming is to our community and economy in Faversham and Mid Kent. From Kentish hops to strawberries for Wimbledon, I’m proud to represent some of the best farmers in the country.
Thank you to everyone who contacted me to share their views on the Bill. It was debated for well over 100 hours in Parliament – making it one of the most well scrutinised pieces of legislation in recent times.
The Agriculture Act 2020 – as it is now known – creates a new framework to replace the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy.
It will see us move towards a system of providing public money for public goods – such as better air and water quality, thriving wildlife, soil health, or measures to reduce flooding and tackle the effects of climate change.
I’m delighted that the Kent Downs is one of the places where the new Environmental Land Management scheme is being piloted.
The new policy will start next year with a seven-year transition period to give farmers time to adjust.
British farming has a bright future.
