The NFU has unveiled plans for a strategic horticulture council – and quashed the hopes of those who wanted a high-profile spin-doctor for the trade.
At a London press conference on May 28, NFU president Ben Gill, pictured, vice president Michael Paske and horticulture executive boss Michael Holmes said they aimed to tackle cross-commodity issues such as water use, poor availability of labour and pesticides with the new group.
They believe the organisation will also help promote the image of fresh produce, in the light of foot and mouth's contribution to a livestock-preoccupied consumer press.
Some players involved in May 27's horticulture summit had hoped for a spin doctor to put a positive edge on horticulture stories - which range from apples being bad for your teeth to overplaying the risks of consuming fruit with pesticide residues – but Gill said this is not the answer.
'Some of the press use emotive language,' he said. 'Some people say we should get a big, fancy sum of money and get an Alistair Campbell, we'll it ain't as simple as that.' He said some of the figures bandied around for such a person's salary were ridiculous.
It is hoped the new body, to be comprised of seven and 20 industry representatives, will also solve the problem of the same people discussing the same issues on a variety of boards.
'We can't afford duplication,' said Gill.
Moves to grow the body will gather steam in February when the NFU undertakes its annual reshuffle.
'There's not going to be a big bang,' said Paske. 'Early next year we will see change coming through.' Gill said he wanted to recruit the industry's 'movers and shakers' to the council, rather than a cross-section of the industry.
'People will not be elected because they are [for example] a raspberry grower, they will be elected because they are the best people,' he said.
To be nominated for election, candidates need the support of 10 NFU members. Paske said the NFU has three –quarter membership of full –time growers.
'There's no unlimited source of money to fund these things,' said Gill of the proliferation of horticulture committees and councils. 'Let's not keep creating all these new organisations, but have a single focus.'
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