Growing Concerns Over UK-US Trade Deal and Food Standards
Growing Concerns Over UK-US Trade Deal and Food Standards
As discussions about a potential trade deal between the United States and the United Kingdom intensify, British farmers have voiced their concerns about maintaining high food standards. The use of hormones in beef production, in particular, has become a contentious issue.
US Vice President JD Vance has expressed optimism about reaching a trade deal with Britain, stating there is a “good chance” of an agreement. However, the last attempt to negotiate a deal between the two countries faltered due to disagreements over food standards.
Concerns Over Food Standards
David Barton, Livestock Chair of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), has been vocal about the need to uphold British food standards. He insists that any imported US beef must pass the same rigorous tests as UK meat. “There is no way we would accept anything that is not produced to our standards,” Barton stated.
Farmers’ Perspective
David Barton farms several hundred beef cattle in the Cotswolds, north of the ancient Roman city of Cirencester. When checking on young calves, Barton explained that his cattle are raised almost entirely on Gloucestershire’s green grass and their mother’s milk. He cuts his own silage and buys local cereal feeds for the winter.
Barton has met American beef farmers and has “no issues” with the way they farm. He acknowledges that they produce beef in a much harsher environment than in the UK. “Our temperate climate, our lush grass – the British Isles are just designed for beef. We don’t have to add much,” Barton explained.
As the UK and US continue to negotiate a trade deal, British farmers are urging ministers to uphold food standards and ensure that any imported beef meets the same criteria as domestically produced meat. The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications for the UK’s agricultural sector and consumers.
Original story: BBC
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