Rural politics were in the spotlight as General Election contenders pitched their policies to farmers and land owners.

The Question Time event was arranged by the National Farmers' Union (NFU).

On the panel were the main party politicians contesting the Bosworth seat – Conservative David Tredinnick, Labour contender Rory Palmer and Liberal Democrat Michael Mullaney, together with Leicester Mercury agricultural correspondent Jonathan Wheeler.

Under the chairmanship of agricultural merchant Barry Hackett, the audience asked questions on issues including affordable village housing, traveller sites, financial support for farmers, climate change and genetically modified crops.

Farmer Ken Grimsdell said the average age of farmers was 59, with hardly any young newcomers entering the industry.

The politicians all agreed it was necessary to attract youth.

Mr Palmer said: "We need to align the farming and agriculture industries to those modern sciences and technologies making sure British farming is at that leading edge of the technological curve."

Mr Mullaney said people heard of farmers working 70 or 80 hours for pay below the minimum wage.

"We need to make sure farming is an attractive occupation," he said.

Mr Tredinnick said: "On the positive side, food demand is going to go through the roof. We are going to have to produce more food and there are going to be massive opportunities.

"The Government will have to look at producing food more efficiently and some of that may be through GM crops."

The NFU handed out copies of its own election agenda at the question time session at the Rising Sun, Shackerstone, yesterday afternoon.

Ellie Richardson, of Market Bosworth NFU said: "Farming can only thrive in the right political environment.

"Competitiveness, profitability and better regulation are key to the future of British farming."