He says his ambition is to create a vibrant, profitable, sustainable future for all farmers, but ads that it can be achieved only with effective regulation, a functional supply chain, a commitment to eradicating cattle diseases and growing access to markets at home and overseas.
“I want to focus on improving the environment in which our businesses operate, improving confidence in the future of dairy whilst acknowledging the challenge to do better.
“The Fair Dealings Obligations (Milk) Regulations was laid in Parliament last month and the legislation is on track to reach assent this July. I would like to start my chairmanship with an open invitation to dairy farmers and processors to collaborate and embrace the opportunity this legislation brings to the UK dairy sector.
“My work has only just begun, and together with other dairy farmers from every county in England and Wales who give their time, energy and commitment to the NFU, I will do all I can to help members navigate this point in time for dairy farming and seek the opportunities to help our industry thrive.”
Paul will be supported by vice chair Ian Harvey, who helps run a family farm partnership milking 180 cows on about 400 acres in Cornwall.