Following publication of the Red Tractor Board’s response to the Farm Assurance Review (FAR) I can now share the discussions we had about the report at the Combinable Crops and Sugar Beet Sector Board meeting held on 28 February.
The meeting focused almost exclusively on addressing recommendations from the FAR and explored ways to improve outcomes for growers and the wider industry. The Sector Board agreed that collaboration with key stakeholders, including AHDB and NFU, was essential, but raised concerns about tight timescales and allocation of actions with an eye on ensuring progress. Given the FAR’s specific focus on crops assurance, the NFU representatives around the table emphasised the importance of correctly implementing recommendation 6.1 and queried the appropriateness of pursuing a Red Tractor entry-level feed standard at this stage.
We discussed some of the key FAR recommendations, including the need to seek earned recognition for including legalisation in the Red Tractor standards, enhanced use of technology, and streamlined audit processes. Examples such as geotagging for compliance and introducing risk-based systems were seen as opportunities worthy of consideration. There were concerns about inconsistent use of tools like the Red Tractor Portal by assessors, which has undermined goodwill among growers. The Sector Board also acknowledged the role of AHDB in driving digital transformation, though attendees emphasised Red Tractor must act quicker to deliver on farm improvements.
The Sector Board also debated how farmers should be engaged in decision-making and recognised a need for balanced transparency. While there were differences of opinion across the farmer and supply chain representatives around the level of farmer involvement in shaping standards all agreed they are vital in shaping standards, improving communication with all stakeholders was identified as a critical area of improvement. Regarding the prospect of introducing greater environmental standards, the Sector Board agreed the supply chain should state its environmental expectations while respecting growers’ concerns.
Best Wishes,
Kit Papworth,
Chair, Combinable Crops and Sugarbeet Board.
Members of the Crops board:
Angela Bowden – Oilseed Crushers
Jamie Burrows – Cereals grower
James Mills – Cereals grower
Matthew Culley – Cereals grower
Julian South – MAGB
Patrick Mitton – Pesticide Issues Consultant
Brin Hughes – BOBMA
Tom Wood – AIC/Grain Merchants
Peter Chandley – Weetabix
Sarah Woolford – AHDB
Nick Morris – Sugar manufacturer
Joe Brennan – UK Flour Millers
Gill Barrow – AIC/Grain Merchants
Ed Dale – Sugar beet grower
Nigel Davies – TAC Chair
Harriette Roberts – BRC
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