In a packed programme at the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) in Cirencester on 7 November, specialist lawyers from Thrings’ main offices in Bristol, Bath, Hampshire, London and Swindon will lead discussions on development agreements, wealth protection, renewable energy and employment.
London-based consultant Anita Symington, who advises clients on the sale, purchase and secured lending of farms and rural estates, will share her thoughts on what the UK’s departure from Europe could mean for the nation’s farmers, while members of the firm’s Planning team – led by partner Alex Madden – will take part in a mock public inquiry.
IP, IT and data protection specialist Graeme Fearon will also explain how the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is likely to impact food and farming businesses when it comes into force on 25 May next year.
Meanwhile, Helen Rumford, who heads up Thrings’ renewables practice, will be looking at the opportunities for farmers in renewable energy, including the merits of battery storage, anaerobic digestion and community energy.
The full seminar programme is:
Head of agriculture Duncan Sigournay, who will be chairing the seminar, says: “With Brexit trade negotiations yet to start, there remains a great deal of uncertainty across the agriculture sector. But it’s never too early for farmers to start considering the possible challenges, the commercial risks and the opportunities for the UK outside of the EU.
“Our advice to clients is that they begin planning for the post-Brexit era now – including preparing for a reduction in subsidies – rather than leave it until it’s too late to adapt. Thrings has the largest specialist agriculture team of any UK law firm, and our experts will have an important role to play in helping clients navigate these uncharted waters over the coming months and years.
“Thrings’ annual seminar has become a flagship event in the farming calendar, and with more than 200 industry experts having already signed up to attend, we are looking forward to a morning of legal updates and healthy debate at what is a prestigious and fitting location.”
Registration for the seminar opens at 9.15am, with presentations getting underway at 10am. Guests will then have the opportunity to continue discussions and network over lunch from 1pm. For more information, please contact Katie O’Donnell.
All major discussion points from the seminar will be shared via Thrings’ dedicated @ThringsAgri Twitter feed.
