Fen Peas

Today was PGRO open day where people from the vining pea and pulse industry gather to look at the trial work they carry out. It is an independent organisation and is recognised and well respected around the world.

As well as the formal part of the day it is also a chance to catch up with other growers from around the UK. There were two topics that seemed to be foremost in peoples minds. Ever rising costs that were out of our control and the future plans of the EU to ban certain chemicals that we use. The first point unfortunately we are in the hands of the hands of the oil producing countries. For the second point the correct and safe use of chemicals allows us as growers to produce food of sufficent quality and quantity for the population. If these chemicals are withdrawn it can only lead to less food at higher prices. You could argue and debate the topic for some time.

As the reading of the bill nears there will be strong lobbying from all sectors of our industry to the relevant MEMP. It is also worth noting that our own government has a duty to protect the food supply for the UK under the food act of 1947!