A farmers’ leader says the government must act now to stop the rapid decline in Kent’s fruit production.

It comes after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hosted a ‘Farm to Fork’ summit at 10 Downing Street last week.

There he discussed government plans to support the farming industry with National Farmers’ Union president Tom Bradshaw.

He then announced a number of long-term strategic measures to encourage investment and growth in the sector.

But while NFU Kent chair Clive Baxter welcomed the announcements he said more needed to be done.

Mr Baxter, a third-generation farmer, who runs a fruit farm and vineyard near Maidstone, said: “Some of the measures announced should have a positive impact in the long-term.

“But there are farmers here in Kent, and other parts of the country, who are struggling and in need of immediate support.

“Swift action is needed to halt the decline in fruit production if the government genuinely want growth in our sector.”

The NFU revealed a national crisis of confidence among farmers and growers in a survey which showed farmer confidence at a record low following the wettest winter on record. In addition, growers have faced a drop in demand and squeezed margins from supermarkets.

Tom Bradshaw added: “We cannot forget that our members have experienced the wettest 18 months since 1836, including devastating flooding, and many are facing an acute short-term crisis.

“The reality is that some farmers and growers believe they may not survive long enough to benefit from these announcements.

“We will continue to engage with ministers on the detail needed for the immediate relief our farm businesses require and believe that core standards for food imports also need to be part of the long-term offer.”