Kent scientists are backing a national campaign urging the Government to increase spending on agricultural research to help tackle the issues of UK food security and the impact of climate change on food production.

The NFU’s ‘Why Science Matters’ campaign, which aims to reverse the 45% drop in funding for agricultural science over the past 20 years, has received the support of East Malling Research (EMR), the last horticultural research centre in the South East.

The team at EMR believes that the failure to properly undertake scientific research will reinforce the country’s dependence on imports, further reduce the competitiveness of the UK’s agricultural and horticultural industry, damage the countryside and at the same time fail to tackle the implication of global warming on food production.

As a result of the fall in funding EMR has been forced to cut back on the areas of research it undertakes, including breeding new apples and pears, improving native hardwood species and developing improved storage regimes for home grown fruit.

Colin Gutteridge, Chief Executive of EMR, said: “The NFU’s ‘Why Science Matters’ campaign is well timed as the government must now, more than ever, focus on scientific research into food production.

“The challenge faced by millions of people around the globe is how to produce more food, while at the same time use less land and valuable resources. Scientific research is the only way to increase production and develop varieties that deliver greater yields, require less pesticides, are more drought resistant, are immune to pests and diseases and still deliver the quality that the modern consumer expects.”

At EMR, the scientists have been responsible for the development of sustainable food production systems that significantly reduce the use of agrochemicals and continue to work on the reduction of water usage in the production of plants – work that has global significance. EMR scientists are recognised as world experts in fruit production, protection and storage.

As part of the campaign the NFU will seek to influence Ministers and MPs by putting the case for greater investment in scientific research.

Colin Gutteridge added: “The simple fact that today the UK produces only 10% of the fruit we eat should make alarm bells ring in government, as it means we are dependent upon imports at a time of global economic uncertainty. Through research to raise yields and extend seasons we could lift this figure to 20% within 10 years with a positive impact on the UK’s carbon emissions.

“We are delighted to add our voice to the campaign and work closely with the NFU and farming community before our nation’s research expertise is lost forever.”