Background:

The Hampshire Farming Study (1997, reviewed 1999) improved understanding of changes in farming, and stimulated new partnerships and initiatives to address some of the issues raised by the Study. The Hampshire Farming Study Steering Group was set up in May 1998 to promote the Study, provide an overview of its implementation and communicate the outcomes.

The Hampshire Farming Partnership (HFP) replaced this Steering Group in September 2000. The HFP has a wider membership and new terms of reference to take account of changes in its functions and the way in which it relates to other organisations.

The focus of the HFP is on farming in Hampshire. But farming cannot be seen in isolation from the wider rural economy, rural communities and the rural environment. An integrated approach is essential, which means that the HFP may well need to consider other areas in its work such as rural enterprise and development.

Aims:

To maintain an overview of changes and trends in agriculture and related sectors in Hampshire, and to use informal influence to help shape future policies and programmes.

Terms of Reference:

To monitor changes and trends in farming and related sectors in Hampshire and the impact of policies and programmes.

To monitor and review the implementation of the Hampshire Farming Study recommendations.

To identify gaps in implementing the recommendations and act on them where possible.

To disseminate information and suggestions for action to other organisations.

To feed into related policies, strategies and plans at local, regional and national levels.

To "farm-proof" policies, partnerships etc.

To undertake regular liasion and co-ordination with other farming studies within South East England.

Mode of Operation:

The HFP will complement the work of other groups, avoiding duplication. It may, for example, suggest that other groups (such as the Committee for Rural Hampshire and Hampshire Economic Partnership) undertake specific actions or make representations on agricultural issues.

Meetings will only be called if issues of importance to the HFP arise, with a minimum of two meetings a year to monitor progress and communicate the results of this.

Other organisations or individuals may be invited to participate in the work of the HFP on an ad hoc basis.

The various member organisations will take it in turn to serve as Chairman of the HFP.

Members: