The 2003 Oxford Farming Conference will be taking 'Real Solutions For The Future' as its theme, and will be turning to the younger generation for insights for the first time.

Speakers will include HRH The Princess Royal, EU commissioner Franz Fischler, Defra minister Margaret Beckett (pictured), as well as for the first time at the conference some younger entrepreneurs concerned with European agriculture.

Tim Rymer, chairman of the 2003 conference, said: 'The Oxford Farming Conference is an opportunity to look at the bigger picture. Our national and international industry leaders will provide an insight into how policy is being shaped.

'With the mid-term review of the CAP being considered, a return by Franz Fischler is particularly topical. While an update from Sir Don Curry on progress with his food and farming commission will be very relevant to those making long-term farming plans.' He added: 'Our speakers illustrate some of the options open from increasing investment in practical farming to focussing on food packaging and processing, from working in the biofuel sector to getting closer to the consumer's needs.' The 57th annual conference will be held from January 6-8 at the Examination Schools in Oxford. For more information visit: www.ofc.org.uk