HAMPSHIRE farmers have been urged to join the debate over Britain's future in the European Union.
The new county boss of the National Farmers' Union (NFU) said the referendum could completely change the industry whatever the outcome.
Matt Culley invited growers and farmers to have their say at an event in Winchester next month.
He said: “The farming industry is going through a tough time right now with poor commodity prices, falling farm incomes and relatively high costs. To top that, there is also political uncertainty over the UK’s relationship with the European Union. Agriculture has a long relationship with Europe through the Common Agricultural Policy and access to the single market, the world’s largest economy.
“The NFU is taking a neutral stance on this issue but we’re working with a leading agricultural research institute on the potential impact of a Brexit, as we hope to help our members understand the possible consequences of leaving the EU. Our position will then be discussed by the NFU leadership at NFU Council in April.”
The NFU is hosting a debate on Monday April 11 at the Holiday Inn, Winchester.
Mr Culley is managing director of Bourne Valley Contract Farms, which grows cereals and oilseeds in west Hampshire. He also runs the family farm at St Mary Bourne near Andover with brother Daniel.
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