‍"This is about shaping the future—not just reacting to it.”

That line from Tammy Dawson-Doughty, Head of the UK Fresh Produce Network (UKFPN), really struck a chord with me.

As someone who is passionate about Lincolnshire’s agricultural sector, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tammy about the launch of a new All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) - a major step in giving our region’s food and farming voices a real influence in Westminster.

She shares powerful insights on why this matters—for producers, supply chains, and the future of UK food policy

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‍Tammy Dawson-Doughty,

Head of the UK Fresh Produce Network (UKFPN)

"As the Head of the UK Fresh Produce Network (UKFPN), which represents a broad cross-section of agricultural and fresh produce businesses across Lincolnshire and its supply chain …  I see the establishment of an All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) as a vital mechanism for influence and change.

Here’s why the APPG matters – and why we’re committed to promoting it:

• Direct Political Access: An APPG provides a formal route for us to engage cross-party MPs and Lords on the real, lived issues our members face—from workforce shortages and trade barriers to sustainability and innovation. It ensures that rural and agricultural voices are not just heard, but actively shape the political discourse.
• Policy Influence: By working with policymakers from across the political spectrum, we can help shape more informed, practical, and effective policies. APPGs often act as a catalyst for debate, white papers, and even legislative change—driven by the insights of the industries they engage with.
• Bridging the Gap: Too often there’s a disconnect between decision-makers in Westminster and the operational realities of producers on the ground. The APPG gives our members a channel to share their expertise and offer workable solutions, bridging that critical gap.
• Momentum for Collaboration: The APPG will act as a platform for ongoing dialogue—not just with politicians but with stakeholders across the food chain. This supports our mission to develop collaborative, long-term strategies for the sector.
• Visibility and Credibility: The APPG raises the visibility of the sector’s needs at a national level. This kind of engagement lends greater weight to our members’ concerns and amplifies their voices in the policymaking process.

This is an opportunity to shape the future, not just react to it. That’s why UKFPN is proud to champion the APPG and ensure our members are actively represented at the heart of political debate."

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As one of the largest counties in England and the UK’s leading food-producing region, Lincolnshire deserves a central role in national decisions that impact our communities. This recognition will help put Lincolnshire firmly on the map when it comes to shaping policies affecting rural, agricultural, and coastal areas.

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For more details on any of the details discussed, or to find out how we can help your business with their Executive Search needs, please contact:

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Charlotte Morgan-Smith

charlotte@pratappartnership.com

07548 838 993

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