Taylor Vinters - Solicitors

Arable farmers operating in England and Wales are being urged to contribute to a new harvest survey which is designed to provide a clear view of current supplies.

The National Farmers' Union (NFU) is calling for its farmer and grower members to help ensure a comprehensive picture is created.

Guy Gagen, chief arable advisor at the union, believes that early wheat harvesting reports suggest recent yields have been more variable than normal, something the NFU hopes to look at.

He said: "Historically, the harvest survey has proven to be a reliable estimate and provides the most accurate early forecast for UK crop yields and production levels.

"The data gathered supports the results of Defra's own survey later in the autumn and fills an important gap between harvest and when official estimates are available."

NFU officials recently suggested that the government should ensure farmers and growers are given more recognition when it comes to developing the UK's future food supply.