Tributes pour in for Lord Plumb as he announces retirement

Starting his career as vice-president of the NFU, Lord Plumb later became NFU President, a Member of the European Parliament (EP), leader of the Conservatives in the EP, first and only British President of the EP and member of the House of Lords.

He also who won the Outstanding Contribution to British Agriculture gong at the 2015 British Farming Awards.

A formidable figure in the campaign to join the European Economic Community, Lord Plumb told the House of Lords in his final speech that future generations in Britain and Europe would ‘favour a reconvergence’ in the years after Brexit.

Poignant

NFU President Meurig Raymond said: “It is poignant that Lord Plumb’s valedictory speech concerns Brexit.

"Henry has considerable concerns and it is a fair bet his satisfaction at the close of a distinguished political career will be tinged with sadness. I wish him well in retirement.”

NFU Scotland chief executive Scott Walker told Farmers Guardian Lord Plumb had championed agricultural matters throughout his long career.

“A strong supporter of Europe, I am sure he will have some comments on what Brexit may bring”, he added.

“NFUS wish him all the best in his retirement.”

Non-Welsh

FUW president Glyn Roberts said Lord Plumb was the only non-Welsh peer to attend FUW events in parliament.

“Lord Plumb was a household name for farmers and he will be remembered with affection as someone who made an outstanding contribution to agriculture over many decades”, Mr Roberts added.

“I have always regarded Lord Plumb as a good friend of Welsh agriculture.

“The FUW wishes him a long and happy retirement and we thank him for his outstanding contribution to British – and to Welsh – agriculture.”

Inspiration

NFU Cymru President, Stephen James said: “Lord Plumb has been an inspiration to us all and has made an outstanding contribution to British agriculture over many years.

“His in-depth knowledge of agricultural politics throughout his distinguished political career has been of great value to the industry.

“To spend time with Lord Plumb is always an honour and I wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.”