The farmers' union has welcomed a parliamentary committee’s call to maintain EU agricultural standards after Brexit.

The report, issued by the Select Committee on the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Efra), recommends that after the UK exists the EU, the government should not enter into any trade agreements allowing food imports that do not comply with existing standards.

National Farmers’ Union Minette Batters said the Efra committee’s findings would be ‘welcome news’ for farmers and growers. Our members have long been calling on the government to provide clarity on future funding and how British farming’s high standards will be protected post-Brexit,” she said.

“British farming operates to some of the highest standards in the world. The report’s recommendation that the Government does not enter into trade agreements that allow food imports that do not meet our environmental, welfare and food safety standards is particularly welcome. It is vital that British farming’s produce and contribution to the nation is not undermined.”

Ms Batters added that the NFU was pleased by the committee’s request that the government a farm productivity plan by May 2019.

“This could be a vital tool in ensuring that farm businesses are able to perform at their best and continue producing high-quality, safe, traceable food for the nation,” she said.