The Big Debate

Following two recent industry-led roundtable discussions, The Big Debate will culminate in a panel session and audience discussion at 2:30pm on Thursday 25 June, in the Longacre Marquee at the Royal Norfolk Show.

This timely debate will bring together leading voices from agriculture, business, research and policy to explore one of the most pressing questions facing UK farming today: do high-input farming systems still make sense in an era of economic uncertainty, policy change and global instability?

The panel will feature:

• Sheener Ooi, Chief Commercial Officer, Dyson Farming
• Harry Barnett, Director, Holkham Emerald Ltd
• John Barrett, Head of Agriculture, AF

The session will be introduced by Professor Julian Blow, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at the University of East Anglia, and chaired by Emily Norton, Chair of AHDB and member of the UK Climate Change Committee. Ben Goldsborough MP will provide closing remarks.

Refreshments available from 14:00

Against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, trade disruption, food security concerns and the withdrawal of direct and environmental agricultural support, farmers are facing unprecedented challenges. Rising costs and volatility in essential farming inputs are accelerating the need for more resilient and efficient production systems.

This debate will explore how research, technology and effective support mechanisms can help the industry adapt, improve resilience and strengthen UK food security. While the event focuses on Norfolk farming, the issues under discussion are relevant to agricultural businesses across the UK.

Join us for an informed, objective and forward-looking discussion on the future of farming in turbulent times.