We Can Do Both Ex-farming minister & MP the Rt Hon George Eustice looks back on his time in government
Jan 30, 2025
George Eustice, former Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, shares insights from his political journey rooted in farming. He discusses his pro-Brexit stance and the impact of trade deals on agriculture. The conversation delves into environmental funding and innovative methane capture techniques that promise sustainability in farming. Eustice highlights the importance of domestic food production for UK security and the challenges of supermarket power, offering a candid look at the future of the agricultural sector.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
George's Farming Heritage
- George Eustice grew up in a sixth-generation farming family in Cornwall.
- His family bred South Devon cattle and lop-eared pigs, with his brother continuing the tradition showing pigs.
Rethinking Agriculture Post-Brexit
- George saw Brexit as a chance to rethink agriculture from first principles beyond EU subsidies.
- He believed government money should pay for environmental benefits, not just subsidize low food prices.
Boost Environmental Scheme Incentives
- Increase payment rates in environmental schemes to create profit margins for farmers doing the right thing.
- Encourage multi-annual contracts for sustainable farming to promote long-term participation.