Lobbying victory for NFU

The NFU is pleased with the composition of the new Agriculture and Trade Commission.  It includes representatives of the English and Welsh branches of the NFU and the farmers' unions in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.   There is also someone rather oddly described as a 'lamb farmer' and representatives of the food and drink sector: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/trade-and-agriculture-commission-membership-announced

In principle, this is a considerable lobbying victory for the NFU, but much will depend on how much influence it has on trade deals, not least that with the United States.

Its key role is to advise on 'Trade policies the Government should adopt to secure opportunities for UK farmers, while ensuring the sector remains competitive and that animal welfare and environmental standards in food production are not undermined.'   

So far, so good, but is role is advisory and the international trade department is likely to become part of a larger Foreign Office before long.    It also does not specifically mention food standards which have been one of the main areas of contention.

A correspondent has drawn my attention to the presence of Sir Lockwood Smith on the Commission.  He was formerly the High Commissioner for New Zealand in London.  Perhaps he is there to argue for the merits of zero subsidies and free trade, albeit his country is currently not admitting anyone who is not a national.

There is also a row brewing with the Scottish Government about common standards in the UK 'internal market' which may end up in court.