Three key re-appointments to the NFU’s Horticulture and Potatoes Board have been confirmed after voting today
Martin Emmett has been re-elected chair of the NFU’s Horticulture and Potatoes Board following voting today (19 March).
Vice chairs Stephen Shields, technical director at Huntapac Produce, and Tim Rooke, third generation potato grower and member of the NFU’s Potato Policy Group, have also both been re-elected.
It comes as the horticulture sector prepares for a period of geopolitical uncertainty with the impact of the Middle East conflict, as well as growing domestic challenges around an upcoming rise to standing charges and a challenging cost environment.
’“I’m delighted to have been re‑elected for another term, and I want to thank the board for their support over the last four years,” said Emmett, who is also a director of Farplants Group and has been in post at the NFU since 2022.
“While our sector faces immediate challenges, including rapidly rising fuel, fertiliser and energy costs due to the conflict in the Middle East, as well as the increase in standing charges from April, it’s also an important moment for horticulture and potatoes,” he said.
”I’ll continue to represent members’ views to government and look forward to ensuring we achieve all we’re aiming for in the year ahead.”
Shields added: “With so much happening across our sector, particularly the focus on fairness within the supply chain and the government’s ongoing review, I’ll continue to work hard on behalf of growers.
“My priority is to ensure their concerns are heard and that we push for greater transparency, consistency and fairness for members,” he said.
Rooke said potatoes, like other sectors, are facing significantly rising production costs. ”It’s essential we continue to work within the NFU and with government and across the supply chain to ensure these are recognised,” he said.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the rest of the board on key issues facing the sector,” he added.
