Defra pays £650k for its own staff to learn about farming

Is this a sign of a Government department which is trying to learn more about the farming sector? Or should staff already possess the experience, knowledge, skills and an appreciation of farming to work in Defra?

Chris Brayford
clock • 3 min read
"Most Defra staff are not from farming backgrounds, yet they have to make important decisions which affect the agricultural industry. This contract enables us to share our knowledge and upskill the Defra team providing a solid foundation to assist in policy and practice."
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"Most Defra staff are not from farming backgrounds, yet they have to make important decisions which affect the agricultural industry. This contract enables us to share our knowledge and upskill the Defra team providing a solid foundation to assist in policy and practice."

A Government agency responsible for the environment, food and rural affairs has awarded a lucrative contract to a British conservation charity, worth more than £500,000, to help its staff to learn about...

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