Defra secretary of state Liz Truss has stressed that the government is examining the option of a future package for farmers and the environment.
The NFU has called on the government to create a British Agricultural Policy, while growers and trade associations have stressed the need to replace lost EU cash and address labour-sourcing worries.
“On Friday we heard a clear message from the British people,' Truss told FPJ. “We must now put our shoulder to the wheel so we leave the European Union in the best way for Britain. As the Prime Minister has made clear, there will be no triggering of article 50 until his successor is in place.'
Truss said there would be no immediate changes and until the UK leaves the EU, current arrangements for farming and the environment remain in place.
“We are now preparing to negotiate our exit,' she continued. 'Defra officials will be working with a dedicated unit in government to look at a future package for farmers and the environment.
“There clearly needs to be a system of agricultural support and British farming must remain profitable and competitive. Equally, Defra will continue to ensure the right policies are in place for a cleaner, healthier environment. The government will work with industry and the public to develop these new arrangements.
“Of course this will take time and it will be for the new PM to make decisions about future policy.”
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