Of the sectors covered by Service Dealer, the consensus which emerged from our discussion with industry representatives on Wednesday this week, which probably offered the most clear cut guidance is in respect of those involved in food production and the industries that supports farmers and the production of food.

Once again, the Government advice (via DEFRA) is that it is the onus on individual companies and organisations to determine whether their staff should be regarded as key workers.

If the job entails supporting the production of food (or a loss in the food production chain) by (a) supplying machinery and equipment when required for food production; (b) supplying and delivering spare parts and other items essential for the safe and efficient operation of machinery equipment used in food production and (c) providing the service and technology support need for tractors and machinery used in food production – then it is likely that those companies and personnel would be regarded as key workers.

Currently this is non-specific government guidance. There are no ‘one-size fits all’ regulations and inevitably more questions than answers. The rules do not appear to be based on the size of the company or the degree of impact on business. The rules are based on an individual’s role in the food production chain.

In terms of the latest guidelines regarding which retail outlets are exempt from closure, which were issued late last night, "Agricultural supplies shops" were added to the list.

Again, the social distancing rules apply to work within a dealer’s premises and on customers land, most of whom will want contact to be kept at the absolute minimum. Advances in recent years have meant many dealers have access to remote diagnostic equipment which obviously minimises time and on-farm activity, but as the timely production of food becomes ever more vital it will require the provision service and repair from dealers and manufacturers.

The term ‘food production’ has a wide scope and is open to interpretation. Obviously, cultivation, planting, feeding, plant protection, harvesting and transport are fairly clear-cut. As is the livestock, dairy and dairying sector. Vegetable and fruit production similarly.

However, farmers have increasing turned to alternative crops in recent years. There are over 700 vineyards in the UK, growing ‘medicinal’ crops is on the increase, nursery plants, agro-forestry and so on are all part of farming scene. There will be grey-areas, but for now dealers should use their best judgement to decide on ‘their rules’.