FARMERS in Herefordshire say they are desperate to know what’s happening as the UK’s exit from the European Union looms.

People working in the agricultural industry feel as if they are in the dark about what extra export tariffs they will be hit with.

David Watts, the National Farmers Union chairman for Herefordshire, said most products the county produces will be affected if the UK leaves without a deal on October 31.

“Farm business in Herefordshire like the rest of the country are desperate for clarity so that they can prepare for life after leaving the EU, and giving businesses the confidence to plan for the future and increase their productivity,” Mr Watts said.

“This in turn will lead to a more cleaner and more sustainable environment for all. This is why we need the government to urgently address our concerns.”

He added many farmers are worried if a deal can not be reached and business with the EU will have to be done under World Trade Organisation rules.

Mr Watts, who lives near Bromyard, said there are more than 2,800 farm holdings in the county, covering more than 176,000 hectares.

“Much of what we produce in the county, eggs, poultry, lamb, beef, cereal and horticultural products, will be hit by export tariffs. Herefordshire farmers are resilient and I’m sure will embrace any change when it happens to continue to play their part in supplying safe, traceable, affordable food, while protecting and maintaining the iconic Herefordshire countryside.

“But we can not do it without the unequivocal commitment from our Government to back British farming.”

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said they have been meeting regularly with the food and farming sectors across the UK to prepare for different scenarios,

A Defra spokesperson said: “The Government has already committed to providing the same cash total in funds for farm support until the end of the Parliament and we have been clear we will intervene to provide additional support where necessary.

“We have analysed the impact of ‘no deal’ on all farming sectors and have contingency plans in place to minimise any disruption should they be necessary.

“We are making all necessary preparations to ensure our farming industry is ready and that Brexit works for farmers across all parts of the UK.”