A host of farmers from the UK have said that leaving the EU is a risk that they “cannot afford to take” and have set up a group ‘Farmers for In’.

Some 42 leading figures from the UK farming industry have called for Britain to remain a member of the EU in a letter to The Times.

The letter (which can be read in full below) has been signed by prominent members of the UK farming community and is led by former National Farmers’ Union President, Sir Peter Kendall.

In the letter, farmers argue that the European Single Market accounts for 73% of Britain’s agri-food exports and gives them access to a market more than twice the size of the USA.

“Outside the EU we could keep all or some of this market, but we would have to abide by EU regulations without a say in their formation and pay into the EU budget without receiving EU payments in return.

“We’d pay, but have no say,” they argue.

Kendall has said that being part of the world’s biggest trading block is crucial to the future of the UK’s farming and food industry.

“Environmental threats cross borders, so do the animal and plant diseases which endanger food supplies, and market volatility isn’t just a problem for British farmers.

“It is pointless trying to tackle these challenges unilaterally, at a country level; only by working together with other member states – with common standards and thresholds – will we give farming the security it needs in today’s uncertain landscape.

“I won’t pretend the EU is perfect but I’m convinced that as farmers we’re stronger, safer and better off inside.”

Another signatory of the letter, George Lyon, former NFU Scotland President has said that EU membership ensures UK farmers are not disadvantage against the vast number of heavily supported and protected agriculture sectors around the world.

“It is my firm opinion that we must not put all of this and more at risk by walking away from Europe.”