Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, with reference to the oral contribution of Lord Gardiner of Kimble of 23 November 2020, Official Report, column 808, what progress his Department has made on creating an advisory body for young people seeking careers in agriculture and horticulture.

Attracting bright new talent into agricultural and horticultural careers is vital for the future of food and farming.

In the recently published Agricultural Transition Plan document, the Government committed to contributing towards the establishment of a new industry-led professional body, the Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture. The Institute will be the home of professional development and training for the agriculture and horticulture industry in England.

Through raising awareness of agriculture as an exciting and attractive career path, the Institute will promote the opportunities available within the farming and land management industry.