Is the government’s new farming policy fit for purpose? That’s the question that will be explored at Stroud District Green Party’s next monthly online Cloud Café discussion.
The event, from 7pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday April 12, will hear from four speakers about the Environmental Land Management Schemes (ELMS), which will pay farmers to provide environmental goods and services alongside food production. The ELMS are a replacement for the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy, which provided subsidies to farm owners.
The speakers will give their views on how this policy will affect our countryside, food production and the rural economy.
Organiser Elizabeth Lee said: “The government claims this new system of farm support is rooted in sustainability and the environment. But will it work? And will it encourage young people, and people from diverse and ethnic communities to develop careers in farming or rural affairs?”
Following the speakers there will be an opportunity for audience questions and debate.
Everyone is welcome to join this free online discussion and debate. The event will be hosted by Stroud Young Greens and young people are particularly welcome to join. Register here to attend or to receive a recording to watch another time.
The speakers
Katie Jarvis, County Advisor for Gloucestershire at the National Farmers’ Union, will give an overview of the new policy. Katie leads on stakeholder engagement at the NFU to ensure farmers’ voices are heard and supports member queries on policy issues across a range of topics. She previously worked for the British Agriculture Bureau in Brussels, representing UK farmers at an EU level.
Anya Whiteside is Youth Land Justice Mobiliser in Gloucestershire. She works with the Landworkers’ Alliance (LWA), a union representing small farmers, growers, foresters and land-based workers, who want to see more sustainable land-use and food sovereignty. She works with community groups, young people and under-represented groups who want to be involved in farming and land-based work. Anya also campaigns alongside different organisations working on land-justice issues.
Chloe Turner is the Green Party district councillor for Minchinhampton, chair of the Environment Committee at Stroud District Council, and county councillor for Minchinhampton Division (including Chalford and Brimscombe & Thrupp). In her spare time, Chloe keeps bees and loves exploring the countryside with her family.
Paul Westaway is a beef farmer in Dymock, Gloucestershire, who owns a pedigree herd of AA & Murray Grey cattle.