NSA Next Generation invites young sheep farmers behind the scenes at Westminster

25th October 2019

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is today opening applications for young sheep farmers with a particular interest in agricultural policy to join a unique opportunity to visit the Houses of Parliament as part of a special two-day event this December.

An important part of NSA's work is to keep those not directly involved in sheep farming increasingly aware of the contribution sheep make to society and of the core aspects of the sector. The important messages NSA delivers to decision-makers in Government is a key part of this work.

And to highlight this work to the younger generation of UK sheep farmers, NSA is inviting those aged 18 to 25 with an interest in agricultural policy and the effect it has on their farming futures to join them for a two-day trip on Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th December.

Co-ordinating this interesting tour, NSA Communications Office Katie James comments: “This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone with an interest in how laws are formed and passed and the subsequent effect they have on the farming sector. NSA Next Generation is very encouraging of younger people in the industry becoming involved in work to help form agricultural policy so we do hope to attract some enthusiastic young sheep farmers to join us for this inspiring trip. It really is a great opportunity to view behind the scenes of where the decisions affecting them happen.”

The trip has been arranged through kind sponsorship of the visit to Westminster by NSA President Lord Inglewood. Lord Inglewood is an active member of the House of Lords, as well as a farmer and landowner in Hutton-in-the-Forest, Penrith, Cumbria, with both upland and lowland interests. He has served as NSA President since 2017.

The visit will include an overnight stay with the opportunity to meet with like minded young shepherds to share experiences and thoughts over a dinner where the group will be joined by a guest speaker giving an interesting insight into the world of Westminster.

The following day the group will visit the Houses of Parliament to enjoy a guided tour of the Palace of Westminster as well as a question and answer session with several MPs who have previously had an involvement in the formation of agricultural policy. The trip will end with a round table discussion amongst the group over lunch.

The trip is open for up to 12 individuals aged 18 to 35. Applications are invited from NSA members and non-members alike although those not currently NSA members are encouraged to join the association. A short application form must be completed to be in with a chance of being chosen as one of the visiting group.

The guided tour of Parliament, accommodation and food will all be funded by NSA Next Generation. Those joining the trip will be expected to pay for their own transport costs.

To apply for your chance to join this trip please complete the online form at www.nationalsheep.org.uk/events