THE ROYAL Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth (RASC) has announced that this year’s Commonwealth Agriculture Conference is to be cancelled.
The event was scheduled to take place in Norfolk, UK in early July, but has followed other events which have made the early decision to call off amid Coronavirus concerns.
“It is with deep regret that we have taken this decision, but in the unique circumstances the RASC Trustees felt that they had no other choice," said RASC chairman, Lord Vestey. "Bringing people in from across the world to an event of this nature is now untenable and it makes sense to cease activity at this stage.
“I am extremely grateful to the team at the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA) who have been working hard on our conference plans for a considerable time, share their sadness at this decision and thank them for their efforts.”
The 29th Commonwealth Agriculture Conference was due to take place at the University of East Anglia in Norwich and expected over 300 delegates to attend.
As well as considering major issues facing agriculture and food production, delegates were to have visited some of the region’s major farming enterprises including the Holkham and Sandringham estates.
“We are deeply disappointed, but fully supportive of the RASC’s decision,” said Sir Nicholas Bacon representing the RNAA and Deputy President of the RASC. “Hosting this conference on behalf of the UK was to be a real feather in Norfolk’s cap. However, we are in unprecedented conditions and the safety of our visitors, staff and volunteers has to be a top priority for all concerned.”
Lord Vestey continued: “As the current global crisis unfolds, many long-established and famous annual agricultural shows and fairs are being cancelled. The impact on the agricultural industry will be widely felt. The RASC will continue to represent, support and help its members in these difficult times.”
Information regarding refunds for delegates is due to be announced shortly and further infomation can be found at www.rasc2020uk.com
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