Adds up to 10 key areas for over 10 years for the Agricultural Industries Confederation

5 key areas of achievement, 5 future priorities

2003 > 2013

and beyond

405260 10@10 AIC 297 X 210_10 04/11/2013 16:15 Page 3

F E MA SFEED MATERIALS

ASSURANCE SCHEME

7.Su

rplu

sFo

odPr

oduc

ts

©AIC November 2011For use with the FEMAS International Core Standard November 2011

SURPLUS FOOD PRODUCTS SECTOR NOTES

NOVEMBER 2011

Tim

Oli

ver

-ab

.su

stai

n

Tim

Oli

ver

-ab

.su

stai

n

A pilot assurance scheme forthe seed treatment industry, theEuropean SeedTreatment Assurancescheme (ESTA), was unveiled atAIC’s annual seed seminar.Thescheme aims to preserve essentialplant protection products, protectinternational trade and ensureongoing investment.ESTA was devised by the EuropeanSeed Association (ESA) in response tothe EU Directive (2010/21) which requiredinsecticide seed treatments to ‘only beperformed in professional seed treatmentfacilities’.The Directive results fromincidences of bee deaths in Germany,Austria and France, particularly associatedwith treated maize seed.

TASCC operatedIn the UK, the scheme will be operatedas part of the Trade Assurance Scheme forCombinable Crops (TASCC), which manyseed companies already participate in.“Essentially, the scheme looks to minimiserisk,” explained AIC Board Member JamesWallace (pictured). “There is a need tocounter the siren voices of single issuepressure groups calling for certain productsto be banned.Therefore, the seed trade

needs to demonstrate that it is operatingto high professional standards, and thatthere is no need for further regulationof either Certified or farm-saved seed.“This needs to be a European-widescheme as seed treatment products aresubject to EU regulations. Any seriousincident in an individual member statecould again lead to product withdrawal.”MrWallace added “Above all, the scheme

–tffag

Fg

JANUARY 2012 WORKING IN SUPPORT OF MODERN, SUSTAINABLE, COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURE

AICJOURNAL

www.agindustries.org.uk

Seed treatment scheme launched

‘I am delighted AIC will joinin the Green Food project– I know you will make avaluable contribution’Jim Paice

Agricultural Minster

‘AIC are important partnersin the farming industry’Peter Kendall

NFU President

What they say about AIC

See what else they had to say at theAgribusiness 2012 (page 4)

With the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)focussing its attention on the agriculturalindustry, it is timely to remind TASCCparticipants to ensure that they have thecorrect personal protective equipment(PPE) for themselves and employees.

Site varianceAs intake sites each have PPE rules that vary by location, hauliers must ensure that drivershave – and wear – the correct PPE to complywith site rules. It has been proven that haulierswho observe intake site rules often getpreference for repeat business.

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE TRADE ASSURANCE SCHEME FOR COMBINABLE CROPS

Welcome Inside

• TASCC codereview

• Training

• Health and safety

• Assurance alerts

• Nonconformances

Welcome to the latest edition of TASCCforce. In this edition, we look at the major changesbeing proposed for the next revision of theTASCC Codes due to be issued in February 2014. We also look at Health & Safety and Training.

While these two issues can sometimes betreated as an afterthought, both subjects arecritical to your business in the long term,

so please take time to read these articles.We hope you find this issue of TASCCforce

informative; if you have any queries orsuggestions for topics to be covered in future editions, then please contact Garry Rudd at AIC Services (see back page forcontact details).

Autumn 2013Issue 14TASCC force

Cleaning vehicles on siteOn-site sweeping out after delivering producthas become an issue in recent months. Thematter is becoming more difficult as someintakes’ health and safety procedures deem itnecessary to clean off site. However, a hauliersweeping out in a public layby is bothdangerous and illegal. AIC schemes insist that trailers must be clean

before loading, therefore intakes must provide aplace to clean. If you know of any sites that donot provide facilities or permit cleaning out,please inform Garry Rudd (contact details onthe back page).

Similarly, we would appreciate knowing of sites that provide suitable facilities, so wecan gather evidence that shows the industry is responding to drivers’ needs.

AIC Service’s issending ‘AssuranceAlerts’ to allregisteredassurance schemeparticipants. Theseemails give detailsof certificationstatus changes. At most, there will be one a daysent around 4pmalthough there will be some days where an alert is not required.

If you wish to receive these alerts, then please send an email to Garry Ruddon garry.rudd@agindustries.org.uk askingto be added to the distribution list.

Assurance alerts

Essential workwear to meet safety standards

A unified voice for the supply industry• Representing over 95% of most supply sectors• Ensuring one consistent approach to key issues for all sectors• Speaking with concensus for the industry• Taking issues to the European Court of Justice – and winning!

Recognised source of practical knowledge and guidance• Providing know-how to policy makers and regulators as

legislation develops• Avoiding impractical legislation that would incur excessive

costs on the supply industry• Briefing at every level from ministers to consumer groups

Lobbying for theagrisupply

sector

Ensuring pragmaticregulation and

legislation

Protecting Members interests

time and again

2003–2013 working in support of mo

Recognition of professionalism in livestock feed advice

FAR, the new Feed Adviser Register, recognisesstandards of professionalism within the livestockfeed supply sector – which is good news forfarming systems; the environment includingreducing GHG emissions.

FEED ADVISERREGISTER

For feed advisersRecognition of their professional expertise andexperience in providing high quality advice.

For the feed industryProvides assurance to stakeholders that theindustry’s advisers are professionalsdelivering advice that helps farmers producequality livestock while taking account ofenvironmental impacts.

For feed supply companiesIndependent assurance to farmers andcustomers that advisers are competent andprovide professional feed advice that takesaccount of environmental considerations.

For farmersThe knowledge and assurance that they arereceiving sound advice from a competentprofessional to meet the needs of theirlivestock production system.

For government and otherstakeholdersA recognisable scheme that will play its part in improving the sustainability of livestockproduction. FAR is a crucial part of theindustry’s participation in the Greenhouse Gas Action Plan.

Benefits FAR delivers . . .

quality feed advice : increasing production efficiency : reducing emissions

NEW

www.feedadviserregister.org.uk

Spring 2013

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE FERTILISER ASSURANCE SCHEME

UpdateUK pause for thought afterTexas explosion

Inside• CTSA – a vital role

• HSE seeks out non-FIAS firms

• International collaboration

• Joining up AIC schemes

• Latest participant feedback

The incident at the West Fertilizer Company,Texas is a reminder to all operators and usersof nitrogenous fertilisers, especiallyammonium nitrate-based fertiliser, to remainever vigilant in housekeeping and fireprecautions.

There has been no formal or definitivecommunication from US authorities on theWest incident. However, we do know that itwas probably caused by a severe firefollowed by an explosion 20 minutes after thefirst reports of a fire involving around 30t ofammonium nitrate fertiliser. The result was 15fatalities, over 200 injuries and a crater 90ftacross and 10ft deep where the store oncestood. Additionally significant damage wascaused to property surrounding the siteincluding an apartment block, a school and anursing home. The City authorities are nowsuing both the operator West Fertilizers, andthe fertiliser supplier, CF industries.

So what are the implications forthe UK?

The Health and Safety Executive will requireinformation and assurances on the location of similar sites in the UK along withassurances on storage standards. Inparticular how storage of incompatiblematerials and fire risk will be avoided.

The AIC fertiliser sector discussions withHSE has led to the viewpoint that COMAH andFIAS sites probably represent less of a risk ofpoor standards than other sites. Non FIASsites present the greatest theoretical risk.

In principle, HSE consider FIAS could be asuitable and effective means by which smallersites (non-COMAH) can be managed andcontrolled. HSE considers that the industry is‘mature enough’ and ‘has demonstratedcompliance intent’ through FIAS and therevision of its Codes of Practice to the extentthat HSE may withdraw its own guidancedocument in favour of the Industry CoP.

Charlotte Hebebrand,Director General of The InternationalFertilizer IndustryAssociation, (IFA),

described FIAS as ‘Best in Class’ in animpromptu speech to the CanadianFertilizer Institute at its annual meeting inAlberta, Canada in August.

Following a presentation given by AIC’s former Sector Head Eileen Pullingeron ’Fertiliser Security in the UK’, MsHebebrand said FIAS was “the standard allcountries should aspire to”. This was thesecond time she had praised the Scheme,having singled it out in a speech to theAnnual General Meeting of FertilizersEurope in Vilnius, Lithuania in June.

IFA, which represents 540 members in 84 countries, is promoting fertiliser securityas an integral element of its ‘Protect &Sustain Programme’. Eileen was one of 15industry experts invited to form a SecurityTask Force in 2012. A key output from thegroup’s discussions is an International’Message Map’, a communication tool tohelp members ensure that securityinformation has the maximum chance ofbeing heard, understood and remembered.

xxxxxxxxxxxIssue 8

FIAS initiates ‘fertiliserthink tank’ to improvefarm safety and security

The FIAS Steering Group has instigated a fertiliser think tank primarily to improvesafety and security of fertiliser storage on UK farms.

There is a feeling within the industry thatwhilst practice has improved on many farmsit is still all too familiar to see fertiliserstacked in fields or yards close to roads.

There is consensus within industry and

governmentas to whatconstitutes best practiceand several attempts have been made tocommunicate this to farmers, albeit withvaried success.

A key aim of the think tank is to develop anew industry communication approach toimprove take up of advice.

IFA endorsesFIAS approach

AAFCOAAPS AARCAARINENAABCABIABMABPIABSACACAACAF ACASACCSACE ACECACFRACLACOS ACP ACPACPACPOACRE ACRE ACTPNADAADASADCADLibADNSADPADRADRADRAADS AEAAEBC AERUAFAAFBINIAFCOMEAFDCAFMMAFPAAFRCAFS AFTAAGMAAGP AGRISAGROMEAGROVOAHAHA '86 AHDAAHDB AHDOAHO AHTAHWAHWPAHWSAIAIAIAIBAICAICCAIDAITSALAAMAAMESAMGS AMIAMSAMTAAMTRAAMUFOCANFFEANPPANPSGAONBAOSAAPACAPECAPM

ARCARINIASAOASEANASL ASPACASSINSELATPATRATEXAUK AUWEDAVRAWB BABFOBACBACCSBACIBAECBAFSAMBAGMABAHPABANCBAP BARBBASABASC BASIS BBKABBPABBROBBSRC BCDTABCFTABCGBCMS BCPCBCVA BEICBEPABERRBETABFBiBGLABGTBGSBGSBHSMABIACBICBIGRAG Biofuels BLRABOD BOBMABPABPC BPC BPCABPDBPEOBPEXBPMFBMP BMPABRC BRFBRTFBSBSPA BSCBSE BSFPBSIBSIABSPB BSPS BSTBTBT BTB BTCVBTOBTVBUGBVA BVDBWMBCA

CABICAC CACFOA CADCAIPCALMCAMS CAP CASCBD CBICCCCFRA CCLCCPCCPRCCS2005CCWater CDGCPLCDGRail2CDGRoadCDTCEASCECCECDCECGCEFAS CEFICCEH CELCEL CELCAACENCER2CFCFA CFECFICFMP CFOACFP CGIARCGMA CGTCHIDCHIPCHLCICIA CIAACICLSCID CIECCIEHCIFCIMMYTCITES CIWF CJD CLACLD/CEL-CAACLERCOCCEECOCERAL CoECoECOGAP COGECACOMA COMAHCOPACOPA-CO-GECACOPCOS COPR COREPECOSEMCCOSHHCOT CPA CPDCPH CPICPLEXCPM CPMP CPO

CROW CRRUCSACSF/CSFOCSFICSFSCSL CSS CT CTS/CTSOnline CTSACTUCUPGRACVLCWSDAMEDANI DARD[NI] DBES DECCDEFRA DESSACDETRDfEEDFR DFT DGDG Agri DGSADG SANCO DG Tren DGMTDH DICE DL DLWGDM DOENIDON DOSCDSEARDTFDTIDTLR DTRDTR2DUS DVMDWPA EA EAFRD EAGGF EAPREBLEX EC ECGDECHWGECN ECPAECS ECSFDI ECStECUGECUKEDEDIEEEAEFAPITEFBAEFFP EFIAEFIPEFISCEFMAEFSAEGCGEGFEH EHO EIDEIGEINECS ELGAELS EMAEN ENA

ERDP ES ESAESAESA ESFESP EU EUETSEuLAEUROMALTEUROPENEWGS FAFAASFABBL FabPigsFACFAC FACEFACTSFADN FAIFAIFAMI-QSFAO FAPAS FAQsFARMAFAWC FAWLFBO FBO’sFBS FBT FC FCFCC FCNFDF FDNTOFDQCFDS FEDIAFFEFACFEFANAFEMASFEOGAFEP FEPA FER FERAFES FEWITAFFAFFAFFAFFAFFB FFFFFMWFFTCFFTL FGFHPFIASFIFAFIFG FINFIRTFISFITAFIUK FMAFMD FMDV FMQFOE FOSFAFOSSE FPAFQAFRA FRACFRAGFRCA FREGG/BFREPA

FSA 1990 FSBFSE FSS FST(S) FTAFUWFVE FVOFVP FWFWAG FWnFWPS FYM GAEC GAFTAGAJGATT GBGCPE GHGGHSGISGLPGM GMAP GMM GMO GO GPSGRIGTASGTPGURT GVW GWCT HAHACCP HASAWAHAUCHCDGHDC HEAR HER HFA HFAS HGCA HLCA HLS HMIP HMRCHMSOHOHOLLHPA HRI HSCHSEHSE HSSHTAHVG HVS IAASIACPAIACRIACS IAgrEIAgrMIAgrSAIAH IAPVIBAPIBCIBDIBERSIBRICCsIChemEICM ICOSICRISATIDIDFIEHOIFAIFA

IFISIFMIFOAMIFOMAIFPRIIFR IFS IFSAIGBIGD IGER IGFAIIPIMDGIMFIMOIMPHOSINRAINSG IODIOSIPIP IPC IPIIPMIPNIIPPC IPU IPWPIRAGIRHIRRIIRTEISECISF ISHSISTAITITE ITOIUPACIUSSIWAIWMIJCCJIC JRA JRCLAALACORS LACOTSLAF LandexLANTRALARS LASCLBAP LDCsLEAF LEAF LERAPs LFA LFASSLFRALGALGCLICLIFDCLIFELIFFELIPSLISALOLERLSALSCLSK LU LVI MAFFMAGBMAGP MANNERMAVISMBMB MDC MDM

MGA MHEMHS MLCMLURI MMMMPMO MOP MOUMRCMRL MRM MRSAMSGMTDNAACnabimNACNACETTNACMNAFMNAPAEO NASFDPNASPMNAWAD NBANBNNBU NCANCCNCVQNDCNDPB NENEMALNERC NFANFANNFMFTNFS NFU NFUSNFWINFYFCNGO NGO NIAB NIFDANIGTANINENIRS NL NNR NOAANOAH NOSNOTIS NPA NPAPNPTANPTC NRECNRINRLNRoSO NRPB NSANSA NSK NSP NSTS NTNTF NTONVQNVZ NWMLOAS ODPM ODSOECDOEL OELS OFCOF&G OFCOMOFTEL

OFS OFTOGCOIE ONICOP OPSIORROSOSROSTSOTFOTM OTMS OVOCOMOVSPAN PANNAPAN UKPAWPBR PCA PCP PCR PCRPPDAPDAPDNSPDVPDVPDVPECPEGSPES PETS PFPFMAPGRPGRO PHSI PIDC PIRAPLAPLANETPMPMA (orAPM)PMB PMCPMG PMSOPMWSPOWERPPDBPPIPPPDPPPRPRBPRC PRO EU-ROPEPROMPTPROOFPROW PRRSPSD PTFSPUFAPUWER 98PVA PVRO PVRSPVS QBTQCAQMSQS4RsRABDFRABI RACRADRAMPSRASCRASERASFFRB209RBCT

RCEPRCSRCUK RCVSRDA RDCRDPE RDRRDS REACHREDAREHISRES RHARHASSRHFRHSRHTRICS RIDDORRL RLR RMIF RNI ROCRoSPAROWIP RPA RPIRPSGB RRARRIRRURSA RSABIRSCRSINRSPBRSPCARSPHRTARTFO RT-PCRRTRRWASRUASRUMA RURALS 12 Notice S 10 Notice SA SAC SACs SAFFIE SAISAPS SARASASA SAYFCSBBSBI SBM SBO SCANSCARABSCCSCF scFOSSCI SCIMAC SCoFCAH SCOPASCOTVECSCPSCPS SCRI SCTASDA SEAC SEERAD SEMSEPASFASFASFFASFI SFISFIA

SGCAFS SGM SME SMLDPSMP SNH SNPSOAEFD SOCISOESOWAPSPAs SPCSPS SPZ SQASQASSQBLASQCSQPSRDPSR04SRC SRM SSC SSPCASSSI SSTSSTAGSTARSTRISUSTAINSVQSVS SWASWMITAFTAGTALISMANTASSCTBTEAGASCTECTFATFITGWUTIBRETLWP tphTRACES TRIG TRIPs TSE TSITSITSO UATUCEPCEE UFASUFUUKUKAFISUKASUKASTAUKBAP UKCPVSUKFGUKPCOUKRAUKREPUKROFS UKTAGUKWAUN UNEPUNIFAUPOV USDAVAVCAvCJD VCUVKPVIVI VIDAViRSAVLA

Edition 1 ©AIC 2009 www.agindustries.org.uk

A compendium of the abbreviations and acronymsused in agriculture and business

acronyms incontext

Managing expanding issues across the supply industry• The past 10 years have seen issues emerge that affect every

sector, eg climate change and environmental legislation• Working with government on issues as diverse as counter

terrorism and biotechnology• Working with the whole supply chain from farmers to retailers

for common purpose to secure safe, wholesome food. • Engaging increasingly at European, and even global level to

ensure the UK voice is heard

1

2

3

JOURNALJOURNAL

Journal Quarter 1 SPRING 2013

WORKING IN SUPPORT OF MODERN, SUSTAINABLE, COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURE

www.agindustries.org.uk

FAR closer to industry launchAIC’s Feed Adviser Register took a step closer to its launch at a major workshop, chaired byFeed Sector Chairman Angela Booth, that gaveMembers an insight into the strategy and plansfor this major new initiative that will acknowledgethe professional standards of those who providefeed and nutrition advice.

AIC Chief Executive David Caffall highlightedthat while the production and safety of animalfeed is assured by the various schemes operatedby AIC Services, there was no correspondingstandard to underpin the associated advice. Hestressed that implementing FAR through AICServices was far preferable to a scheme beingimposed by a third party.

The key driver for creating FAR is todemonstrate that the feed industry is activelyaddressing the challenges within the GreenhouseGas Action Plan to reduce emissions fromlivestock. An issue taken up by Defra’s GrahamRussell who stressed that addressing climatechange made good business sense rather thanmerely satisfying government policy. A voluntary,industry-led initiative including FAR, as part of the GHG Action Plan was, he said, ‘a smart way of working.’

However, FAR will also provide an opportunityfor companies and individuals to raise, andacknowledge, the professionalism of advisers in the field.

Nick Major, a member of the FAR WorkingGroup, confessed he had been a sceptic on theneed for such a scheme initially. However, overthe past year he has come to recognise the

benefit of developing a scheme run by theindustry, for the industry.

‘This means we are in charge of our destiny,’ he told the meeting. ‘A scheme run, on a not-for-profit basis, by AIC Services offers the best wayforward.’

This was reinforced by AIC’s Feed Sector HeadGeorge Perrott who said that FAR had beendevised specifically to ensure the industry is incontrol and that the scheme developed at its ownpace.

‘Initially, we wish to seek a common level ofcompetence for advisers across the variousclasses of livestock,’ he said.

Initially, FAR will adopt a ‘manager-verified’approach. In other words, for those who areemployed by companies, it will be their managerswho approve a particular level of competence.

FAR will be administered by AIC Services,whose Managing Director John Kelley outlinedhow the scheme will be largely web-based,operating through a dedicated websitewww.feedadviserregister.org.uk to minimiseoperating costs. The website will allow registrationand provide a wealth of information on training,relevant events and much more.

The scheme will be launched officially on 1 May2013, when the website will also go online. Forthose signing up in the first months there will bean early bird discount scheme. A significantreduction in fees applies to AIC Members torecognise the investment made over the past two years in developing the scheme.

FAR – Key points

� Created in the bestinterests of all in the Feed Sector

� Operated by theIndustry, for the Industry

� Devised with minimumadministration to delivervalue for money

� Recognises keycompetences of existingfeed advisers

� Assures farmers of thequality of feed advice they receive

� Part of the sector’sresponse to reduceemission from livestock

� Launched before othersimpose standards on theindustry

Graham Russell, Defra ‘FAR is the smartway forward’

George Perrott – ‘FAR will move at our pace’ The event was chaired by Feed SectorChairman Angela Booth

Sceptic turned enthusiast Nick Major

As I write, ScottishGovernment (SG) hasjust announced a furtherallocation of money tosupport the Scottishfarming industry afterwhat has been anextraordinarily difficult

time. The weather damage to autumn sowncrops has affected the whole of the UK whilethe extended cold wet period followed byheavy snow in some areas has severelychallenged the livestock sector. So it is good news for our Members that SGrecognises the difficulties.

The recent news on neonicotinoids hasbeen disappointing despite support fromboth SG and UK Governments. AIC lobbiedSG and provided supporting information.

In April we had to apply for an extension ofdrivers’ hours in order to deliver feed toDumfries, Galloway, Isle of Arran and someparts of the Borders. It was good to see theindustry working together to achieve asuccessful outcome. Our action combinedwith NFUS support led to a rapid response.

Progress on CAPCAP reform development continues. The SG has outlined several alternative proposalsfor Scotland to move from a historic to aregional base. Whichever route is chosenthere will be significant effects on the makeupof Scottish agriculture; some farmers will gainwhilst others will lose. For AIC Members thiscould mean substantial shifts in the mix offaming types across the country.

To keep up to date on CAP reform I againrecommend reading David Barnes blog athttp://blogs.scotland.gov.uk/cap-reform/

The SG has announced a consultation on SDRP reform and members who wish to comment should go tohttp://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/05/9633

The SG continues to develop ideas andpolicies on climate change. At farm level,communication is being delivered by SRUC.To date there has been little interactionbetween SRUC and AIC but I hope that

this may change. I recently met with SRUCsRebecca Audsley who provided the followinginformation:

I continue to attend stakeholder meetingson climate change, making the point thatfarmers take a lot of trusted advice from ourMembers’ staff. This is recognised by the SG ithas expressed a keen interest in the FeedAdviser Register (FAR). If that goes ahead inScotland we have been offered SG supportand a meeting on FAR is scheduled for 15th July

My first duty as yournew AIC ScotlandChairman must be tothank my predecessor,Ian Henderson, for hisinput over the past twoyears. His tenure has

been significant. AIC Scotland’s voice isnow being heard, and listened to, byScottish Government.

In his last report, Ian voiced the hopethat the New Year would bring greaterstability to all sectors. The continuing, andincreasing, involvement of politicians, bethey EU, UK, or Scottish, wishing toinfluence any one sector of agriculture,has the potential to introduce unforeseeninsecurity in another. The importance ofAIC’s strong and influential voice cannotbe emphasised too strongly.

The recent AGM at Perth was wellattended, and I encourage you all tomaintain the attendance at our regularmeetings. A strong, active membershiphelps AIC be heard.

We have a brand new team of SectorChairmen, whose details are overleaf. Can I record our appreciation for theirpredecessors’ input.

Bruce Ferguson, Chairman of the Arable and Fertiliser Sector, will representAIC Scotland at the forthcoming CAP stakeholder conference where‘regionalising of the future directpayments’ will no doubt be high on the agenda.

We are fortunate to have Kevin Millsrepresenting us on several ScottishGovernment committees and I lookforward to supporting Kevin as heimproves AIC Scotland’s links with theScottish Government.

My background is in trading and storinggrain and oilseeds. I represent Scotland onthe AIC Contracts Committee and I aman approved AIC Arbitrator.

As we wait impatiently for Spring, I wishyou all a Summer which will allow ourMembers, and their farming clients, in allsectors to prosper.

Archi LamontChairman, AIC Scotland

E: archi@pitlowie.com

T: 07860 420042

AIC Scotland activity

WORKING IN SUPPORT OF MODERN, SUSTAINABLE, COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURE

AIC SCOTLAND

Further information: Kevin Millskevin.mills@agindustries.org.uk

SPRING 2013

Scottish Government hasestablished Farming for a BetterClimate, which gives farmers and theiradvisers a range of ideas to help themidentify practical measures that are

beneficial to their individual farmbusiness and which help to reduceemissions, lowering the farm carbonfootprint. Through on-farmdemonstrations, via the Climate ChangeFocus Farms network or in practicalguides or farmer case studies, Farmingfor a Better Climate looks at realisticways to save on energy and fuel use,the scope for on-farm renewables, waysto ‘lock up’ carbon, how to make betteruse of nutrients on the farm and waysto optimise livestock management. For more information, seewww.farmingforabetterclimate.orgor contactclimatechange@sac.co.uk. You can also follow on Twitter at@SACfarm4climate

Agricultural IndustriesConfederation

Annual Report 2012/13

www.agindustries.org.uk

Working in support of modern, sustainable, commercial agriculture

405260 10@10 AIC 297 X 210_10 04/11/2013 16:16 Page 4

ce

d

or

se

cts

needs to demonstrate that it is operatingto high professional standards, and thatthere is no need for further regulationof either Certified or farm-saved seed.“This needs to be a European-widescheme as seed treatment products aresubject to EU regulations. Any seriousincident in an individual member statecould again lead to product withdrawal.”MrWallace added “Above all, the scheme

– which has been welcomed by seedtreatment manufacturers – aims to protectfuture use of seed treatments and stimulatefurther investment in these products thatare so vital in the early stages of a crop’sgrowth.”

Further information: Garry Ruddgarry.rudd@agindustries.org.uk

WORKING IN SUPPORT OF MODERN, SUSTAINABLE, COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURE

A JOURNAL

w k

IN THIS ISSUEPage 2 10 years of VI success

Page 3 Secure fertiliser industryis vital

Page 4 Agribusiness 2012attracts record numbers

Page 7 Current schemes set todeliver GHG target

Page 8 AIC campaigns onantimicrobial resistance

S tment scheme launched

‘ delighted AIC will joini e Green Food project– now you will make av able contribution’Jim Paice

Agricultural Minster

‘ are important partnersi e farming industry’Peter Kendall

NFU President

W say about AIC

t else they had to say at theAgribusiness 2012 (page 4)

A focus for industry initiatives• Working as a leading partner in initiatives such as the Campaign

for the Farmed Environment and the Voluntary Initiative.• The CFE alone prevented a mandatory reduction in the farmed

acreage of around 7%. • Providing support to campaigns that address consumer

perceptions and those that look to attract new entrants to the industry.

An alternative to regulatory

burden

Future proofing the industry

modern, sustainable, commercial agriculture

The AIC Conference for members and stakeholders

East of England Showground, Peterborough10 November 2010

The BIG Picture!

Sponsored by

� Lobbying in Brussels, Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Westminster.

� Providing information on a wide range of technical, regulatory and business issues.

� Managing trade assurance schemes that underpin feed and food safety,and fertiliser security.

� A voice and focus for the agrisupplyindustry.

Delivering added value to members by:

Working for a modern, sustainable agriculture www agindustries.org.uk

Crop Protection and Agronomy Feed

Fertiliser Grain and Oilseed Seed

Delivering benefits for our members

The Agricultural IndustriesConfederation brings togetherleading sectors of the supplyindustry with commoninterests. Since its formationthe role and value of AIC has become increasinglyrecognised, not just by themembership but by regulatorsand politicians across thedevolved governments and Europe.

ADDINGvalueKeeping farmland available for production

www.agindustries.org.uk

1AIC | ADDING VALUE | 2010 |

2010

At AIC we always focus onadding value for our members.Sometimes these benefits arenot immediately apparent.

This year one issue stands out –the Campaign for the FarmedEnvironment. I do not believe wehave a single member who willnot derive some financial gainfrom this.

AIC joined forces with otherkey organisations. It was a hardfight, but we won a voluntaryscheme seeking around 1% ofEnglish farmland out ofproduction rather than 8%.

AIC Treasurer James Wallacecommented: “This will pay yourAIC subscriptions for some years.”

Sector by sector there aremany other examples thatdemonstrate how we add value for our members.

In taking pride in this report, I pay tribute to effective action by my colleagues as well as theunstinting input of many membercompanies and individuals.

David CaffallChief Executive, AIC

Where AIC adds value

During 2009, environmentallobbies pressed governmentfor a re-introduction ofcompulsory set-aside.

This would have badly damagedthe supply industry.

Arable input sales and outputvolumes would have dropped andimpacted on feed supplies.

AIC was among the firstorganisations to step forward withan alternative voluntary scheme –

the Campaign for the FarmedEnvironment. Working with the CLA and NFU – we persuadedgovernment that environmentalenhancement can be achievedwithout reducing UK production.

Having gained this agreement, we now have to deliver. Those who claim that farming cannot betrusted with a voluntary schememust be proved wrong.

We cannot afford to fail.Turnover across AICmembership would fall by up to £400million.

A flow of new GM traits, pluscontinued delays in EU authorisationand zero tolerance of unauthorised‘events’ is a significant threat to thefeed sector’s ability to source rawmaterials.

Joined up lobbying at UK andEuropean level has ensured, for now,that the industry can continue tosource soya and even consider maizegluten again.

• Full story page 8.

CFE avoids potential lossesof up to

£400millionGM delays pose

£60mthreat to UK feed sector• Full story page 8

Seed treatment proposals could add

£100,000 costs

• Full story page 4

Pesticide regulationsthreaten loss of over

£150/ha• Full story page 6

Metaldehyde ban could cut margins by

15%• Full story page 6

Feed regulationsprotect the value of research • Full story page 8

New TASCC Audit cuts costs by up to

£350• Full story page 10

. . . meanwhile GM authorisations mean new feed opportunities

Benefittingevery member

��

8% compulsory arable cut

1% voluntary reduction

The options we faced:

FertiliserStatistics2009Report

Some charts in this report illustrate data for England & Wales because these are the longest-running data sets in the UK. Amalgamated GB data are only available in detail since 1992.

As agriculture comes under increasing pressure to improve economic and environmentalperformance, the spotlight is on fertiliserproduction and usage. The industry has alreadybecome involved in a range of initiatives, such asTried & Tested, and more recently the Campaignfor the Farmed Environment.

Sound statistical data becomes ever more important as thefertiliser sector, and the farming industry it serves, seek toboth understand trends in fertiliser usage and benchmarkagronomic practice. This leaflet, which reports some keyaspects of fertiliser use, provides some of the necessary datathat will inform the collaborative actions being taken alongthe supply chain from fertiliser production to use on farm.

Each year, the British Survey of Fertiliser Practice (BSFP)reports a detailed survey of on-farm fertiliser, lime andmanure practice. AIC is pleased to be part of BSFPAuthority and to extract information for use in this leaflet.

Eileen Pullinger Ken BowlerJane Salter Fertiliser StatisticsAIC Fertiliser Sector Chairman

Table 1: Areas of main crops and managed grass in the UK ('000 ha)

1 year % 5 year % crop areaGr owi ng season: 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/ 08 change change as % of total5-yrs ago 2007-08 2004-08 2007/08

Wheat 1990 1867 1836 1830 2080 + 13.7 + 4.5 17.5

Barley 1007 938 881 898 1032 + 14.9 + 2.5 8.7

Total cereals 3130 2919 2864 2885 3274 + 13.5 + 4.6 27.5

Potatoes 148 137 140 140 144 + 2.9 - 2.7 1.2

Sugar beet 154 148 130 125 120 - 4.0 - 22.1 1.0

Oilseeds 528 564 604 687 614 - 10.6 + 16.3 5.2

Peas/beans (dry) 242 239 231 161 148 - 8.1 - 38.8 1.2

Other crops (excl. grass) 387 429 448 441 439 - 0.5 + 13.4 3.7

Industrial crops on set-aside 60 77 0 0 0Grass, < 5 yrs old 1246 1193 1137 1176 1141 - 3.0 - 8.4 9.6

Grass, 5 yrs old > 5620 5711 5967 5965 6036 + 1.2 + 7.4 50.7

Tot al UK ar ea* 11515 11417 11521 11580 11916 + 2. 9 + 3. 5 100. 0Set-aside (total) + fallow 588 699 663 605 195 - 67.8 - 66.8

* Area of potentially fertilised arable and managed grass, including industrial crops on set-aside up to 2004/05, after which they are included in the main crop group.

Source: Defra Statistics

JOURNALJOURNAL

Journal Quarter 2 SUMMER 2013

WORKING IN SUPPORT OF MODERN, SUSTAINABLE, COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURE

www.agindustries.org.uk

Ministers praise AIC’s‘Value of Advice’ report

The importance of AIC’s Value of Advice Projectis best demonstrated by speeches from twoserving ministers at its launch in the House ofCommons. Agriculture Minister David Heath andBusiness Minister David Willetts both seized theopportunity to address AIC’s invited stakeholdersfrom across the industry. The event was hosted byformer Agriculture Minister Sir James Paice,

The Value of Advice Report assesses, from afarming business viewpoint, how information andadvice is provided on UK farms. It identifies aninner ‘Ring of Confidence’ that includes a widerange of advisers and other information sources –from input suppliers to lawyers and accountants –that a farmer depends on when making decisions.

“Our work was undertaken at a time when some siren voices were calling for the re-invention of a state extension service,” AICChief Executive David Caffall told delegates. “Weneeded to show to policy makers that there is anestablished range of advice available to farmersand that wheels do not need to be reinvented.”

Welcoming the report, Farming Minister David

Heath said that the informationwas timely and has providedvaluable information into Defra’sown review of the advisorylandscape.

“We have a message to share to increase production,improve resource utilisationand raise environmentalbenefits,” he said.“Government should provideinformation and let othershave the discussions todeliver advice.”

Universities and Science Minister David Willettsdescribed the industry’s concern at the slowing ofproduction efficiency in recent years. Governmentis investing in ways to increase productivity, but herecognised that delivery of information to farmswas critical to restore Britain’s position as a worldclass leader in agriculture.

A full copy of the report can be downloadedfrom the AIC website – www.agindustries.org.uk

For AIC Members the reporthighlights the scale of theadvisory army that operateson farms:

� Over £200million annual investment inprofessional advisers

� Some £5million spent onCPD in schemes such asBASIS, FACTS and FAR

� At least £45millioninvested each year ondevelopment work

� 20,000 on-farmconversations each week

Farming Minister David Heath applauds AIC’s Value of Advice Project (left); Science Minister David Willetts affirms the importance of information delivery

While much of this document, as always focuses on individual

fertiliser ingredients – nitrogen (N), phosphate (P2O5), potash

(K2O) and sulphur SO3.There is a need to take a holistic view

of what this report tells us.

As long ago as the 1840s, the law of the minimum was

understood, where potential growth is limited by the nutrient

in shortest supply. The famous barrel illustrates how yield can

only rise to the potential of the most limiting factor.

We face the challenge of ‘sustainable intensification’. This

requires the farming industry to optimise output to feed a

growing world, whilst safeguarding the environment in which

it operates. Such optimisation can only be achieved by ensuring

crops and grassland have an adequate balance of all nutrients.

For example, nitrogen use efficiency cannot be achieved without

due attention to the nutrients that underpin it. This report

highlights, once again unsustainable long-term trends in the

balance of nutrients across Britain’s farmland. Unless the balance

is redressed, the industry will fail to achieve what national

policy requires.

* Area of potentially fertilised arable land and managed grass. Source: Defra Statistics

R E P O RT

Table 1: Areas of main crops and managed grass in the UK ('000 ha)

1 year % 5 year % crop areaGrowing season: 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10 change change as % of total

5-yrs ago 2009-10 2006-10 2009/10

Wheat 1836 1830 2080 1775 1939 + 9.2 + 5.6 16.5

Barley 881 898 1032 1143 921 - 19.4 + 4.5 7.8

Total cereals 2864 2885 3274 3076 3013 - 2.0 + 5.2 25.6

Potatoes 140 140 144 144 138 - 4.2 - 1.4 1.2

Sugar beet 130 125 120 114 118 + 3.5 - 9.2 1.0

Oilseeds (inc. linseed) 605 687 621 600 686 + 14.3 + 13.4 5.8

Peas/beans (dry) 231 161 148 228 210 - 7.9 - 9.1 1.8

Other crops (excl. grass) 428 442 428 445 445 + 0.0 + 4.0 3.8

Grass, < 5 yrs old 1137 1176 1141 1241 1232 - 0.7 + 8.4 10.5

Grass, 5 yrs old+ 5967 5965 6036 5865 5925 + 1.0 - 0.7 50.4

Total UK area* 11502 11581 11912 11713 11767 + 0.5 + 2.3 100.0

Uncropped arable land 663 599 194 244 174 - 28.7 - 73.8

Ken Bowler

Fertiliser Statistics

Chairman

Eileen Pullinger

Jane Salter

AIC Fertiliser Sector

Some charts in this report illustrate data for England &Wales because these are the longest-running data sets in the UK. Amalgamated GB data areonly available in detail since 1992.

FertiliserStatistics2011

AIC | ADDING VALUE | 2012 |

IntroductionThe agricultural supply industry nowhas the strong voice that it soughtwhen AIC was first formed. Ourengagement in the decision makingprocesses in Brussels, Belfast, Cardiff,Edinburgh and London forms apowerful counter-balance to thelobbying undertaken by opponentsof our industry.

The following pages cataloguesome of our recent campaigns,victories – and occasionaldisappointments. Our publicationtitle reflects our understanding thatwe must always be adding value. Thecontents show exactly how, whereand why Members’ subscriptionshave been invested on their behalf.

We have made strong progress,but this year will undoubtedly seefurther challenges, which we willmeet on behalf of our Members.

The Government has set a target of an 11% reductionof greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agricultureand land use by 2020. In response, AIC played a criticalrole in the creation of the Agriculture GHG Action Plan(GHGAP) which was designed to achieve this target. The past year has seen the words in the Phase 1Delivery Plan converted into actions.

What is AIC doing?

Having one-to-one conversations with representativemember companies to clarify the links between theirproducts and services for farmer customers and the GHGAP.

We are also working with industry partners (AHDBand others) on members’ behalf to co-ordinate activities

and to add weight to the effectiveness of joint farmer-facing initiatives.

How does my organisation benefit?

By planning ahead, we can ensure that AIC membercompany advisers, agronomists and animal nutritionistsall have the necessary skills and training to supportfarmers, who will ultimately deliver against the targets.

AIC’s central involvement means that members will influence how farming practices can deliversustainable of agriculture, and ensure the long-termprofitability of the agri-supply sector.

If no action was taken the industry could have faced punitive legislation which would be both costlyand onerous.

In th

is iss

ue

AIC helps to turn words into action on greenhouse gas reduction

Speaking out on CAP ReformPage 2

Prince Charles supports careersinitiativePage 3

£3m costs to feed industry –averted Page 4

New scheme preserves seedtreatmentsPage 8

Addingwww.agindustries.org.uk

2012value

David CaffallChief Executive, AIC

1

WelcomeOnce again, we have drawntogether a range of case studies of where AIC has – and oftencontinues – to add value to ourmembers’ businesses. What standsout this year is the recurring themeof issues emanating from Europe.Whether the broad policy of CAPReform, or a technical detail such asfeed analysis, the common strand isthe need for early engagement atthe European level.

AIC has raised its game inBrussels and I am sure thisyear will seeeven moreadded value for ourmembers.

�

�

DavidHutchinsonAIC Chairman

Constant innovation in services• Driving a sustainability agenda• Managing and delivery feed safety schemes• Creating fertiliser safety assurance • Supporting seed assurance scheme• Launching the Feed Adviser Register (FAR)

4

5

Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops

SCHEME RULESEffective from February 2014

T H E V A L U E O F A D V I C E

VALUE of advicePROJECT

T H E V A L U E O F A D V I C E www.agindustries.org.uk

addressing individual business needs: supporting sustainable farming systems

To the agri-supply industry: • £200m annual investment in professional advisers

• £5m annual investment in CPD

• £45m annual investment in R&D

• 20,000 meaningful conversations on farm every week

To farmers: • Credible advice from trusted advisers

• Expertise tailored to their specific needs

• Effective knowledge exchange

To Governments and otherstakeholders, a delivery route:• Helps achieve policy objectives on farms

• Achieves environmental compliance and best practice

• Supports voluntary industry-led initiatives

The UK’s farming activities

are supported by a wide range

of professional advisers –

from agronomists to vets,

from feed advisers to seed

representatives. Each plays a

vital role in delivering technical

advice to support sustainable

farming systems. Traditionally

focused on improving

production; today, advisers are

helping businesses to improve

competitiveness and resource

efficiency, deliver environmental

objectives, and contribute to

the wider sustainable

intensification agenda.

April 2013

405260 10@10 AIC 297 X 210_10 04/11/2013 16:16 Page 5

Constant horizon scanningAs the influence and reputation of AIC grows, we gain a better insight into likely policy developments and regulatory changes. Our aim is to stay ahead of the curve and feedback our insight to Members as rapidly as possible.

An increasingly effective presence in EuropeThe past 10 years have seen AIC gain significant successes at UK level.We now aim to see this translated into benefit at the European level.We will encourage our European counterparts to look increasingly atthe big picture. European agribusiness will be stronger and more effective when agriculture and its needs are viewed as a whole.

Supporting research and development Changing climate; new pests and diseases; changing dietary requirements show, time and again, that the food and farming industries do not have all the answers. AIC will continue to supportrelevant research programmes, support the introduction of new technologies that improve efficiency and deliver sound advice in crop and livestock sectors.

Developing and promoting the professionalism of all our Members’ activitiesToday, farming has to feed a growing world and protect a fragile environment. AIC Members have risen to the challenge by adoptingprofessional standards that deliver expertise to farms alongside products and services. The ‘Value of Advice’ project reflects the added value achieved and we will build on this with new initiatives.We will also promote the expertise within the UK agribusinesses.

Working together for agricultureTime has shown that the way forward is not about one mega organisation for UK agriculture. Rather it is about forming effective,often short-term, alliances to address specific needs.The past yearshave seen initiatives, such as the Campaign for the Farmed Environment and the Voluntary Initiative, bring together farming,landowning, wildlife and environmental organisations. AIC will continue to act as a lynch pin for relevant initiatives that bring together relevant stakeholders with common purpose that benefit the whole foodchain and deliver sustainability.

Priorities for the future

Helping Members plan for tomorrow

Strengthening the industry’s voice

where policy is formed

Ensuring progress through innovation and communication

Gaining public recognition for

high standards in delivering safe,

affordable food and asustainable environment

Forming influential coalitions that are

dedicated to retaining UK agriculture’s

‘World Class’ status

1

2

3

4

5

405260 10@10 AIC 297 X 210_10 04/11/2013 16:16 Page 6

5 key areas of achievement plus 5 future prioritiesAdds up to 10 key areas for AIC

The Agricultural Industries Confederation was founded in 2003 at a time when sectors of the supply industry had little presence. Thus it is timely to reflect on what has been achieved and what our priorities are,going forward.

At the tactical level, we can lay claim to very many achievements. At any one time, our Sectors

typically have over 100 issues on the agenda. These may range from the minutiae of a labelling

requirement in a niche market area, to impractical regulation from Brussels which could impact

the whole viability of parts of the UK agricultural supply industry.

This document reviews AIC’s over-arching strategic achievements.They have been delivered, in part,

through the hard work of a small, dedicated team. But, more importantly, they reflect the support –

in terms of finance and expertise – that our Members and their staff have provided generously to

AIC from its inception.

Looking ahead, there will be many challenges that our Board and Strategy Group will help to identify

and meet. But the common thread will be an on-going commitment to continually deliver added

value to the Membership that we are proud to serve.

David Caffall

Chief Executive

Agricultural Industries Confederation

405260 10@10 AIC 297 X 210_10 04/11/2013 16:15 Page 1

“Since its formation, AIC has developed a strong,

unified voice for the agricultural supply sector

and striven to support a sustainable farming

industry. David Caffall and his team have worked

tirelessly to establish viable partnerships for

common cause with farmers and others in areas

such as the Greenhouse gas action plan, the

Voluntary Initiative and most recently the

Campaign for the Farmed Environment.”

Peter Kendall, NFU President

4052

60/1

Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC)Confederation House East of England Showground Peterborough PE2 6XET: 01733 385230

www.agindustries.org.uk

405260 10@10 AIC 297 X 210_10 04/11/2013 16:15 Page 2