My thanks go to the NFU representatives and local farmers I met with recently in Great Leighs to find out more about the challenges they face, specifically the unacceptable level of rural crime they have been subjected to. Theft of property has become such a huge problem in recent years that some farmers are giving up the profession entirely. New police initiatives like ‘rural teams’ are a step in the right direction, but I will be speaking with the Police & Crime Commissioner to ensure these teams are adequately funded and staffed. Farmers are essential to our daily lives, so looking after them should be a top priority.
