The Curry Commission - Two Years On was not just a back-slapping exercise. There was a real attempt to analyse not only the successes, but also the failings of the work done since the Curry Report’s publication.

Each speaker was frank about the advances made in some areas of the food and farming chain and the brick walls that have hindered progress in others. The over-riding impression was that many of the initiatives planned for implementation have yet to reach first base.

The lack of awareness among the farming and growing communities of the report, its findings and the projects that are already underway, points to one major failure however - communication. This was borne out by breakout sessions at the event. The number one suggestion that emerged was the creation of a joined-up and well-targeted communications strategy, delivered in a context that optimises the power of the message.

There was an admission that, so far, this message has been largely confined to conversations between men and women in suits. Last week’s get-together was another fine example of preaching to the converted. But at least the realisation that this is not enough seemed to have dawned on the people who can make a difference.

The reality - as starkly emphasised by Sir Peter Davis - is that whatever the Curry Commission achieves, it must do it at a far quicker pace. That a number of key participants appeared surprised by the words of the Sainsbury’s chief was worrying. Judging by his immediate reaction, Sir Don himself did not seem to have grasped the full picture of the harsh environment at the front-line, where farmers in all sectors of agriculture are working.

The report and implementation of its proposals can still play a major role in reinvigorating UK farming. But communication is a two-way street - maybe the industry should be more pro-active in letting the commission know the extent of the problems it is attempting to address.