Farmers have gathered in Birmingham for the National Farmers Union conference. Delegates were told their industry is threatened by “Volatility, uncertainty and instability” and with an election looming, both government and opposition speakers have been at the podium. Prime minister Rishi Sunak addressed the conference via video link, and the farm minister Mark Spencer said seasonal workers won’t be paid more than the living wage from April, which will be a relief for many employers. He also announced £168 million pounds in grants for innovations on farms. Labour leader Sir Kier Starmer came to the conference too. He admitted that Labour is usually seen as an urban party, but told delegates his party does care deeply about the countryside - and he wants to forge a new relationship. On farming policy, he said although the new Environmental Land Management schemes in England are a step in the right direction, farmers needed transparency and certainty. NFU president Minette Batters drew a picture of British farming under threat, from climate change, the growing global population, and particularly huge rises in input costs which she said are already resulting in reduced production across eggs, salad, beef and sheep. She told the conference that the sector needs to boost productivity and manage volatility, while protecting the environment. Presenter = Anna Hill Producer = Rebecca Rooney