British farmers are reducing food production to remain viable, says NFU.
- Reduction due to declining crop yields and subsidy cuts post-EU scheme.
- NFU President urges government to support transition with underspend funds.
- Environmental Land Management scheme payments aid biodiversity efforts.
- Concerns over delayed flood recovery grants and budget fund clarity.
In light of recent developments, the National Farmers Union (NFU) reveals that British farmers have been compelled to decrease food production as part of their strategy to stay in business. This decision is largely driven by the reduction in crop yields and the substantial cuts in government subsidies that followed the termination of the previous European Union (EU) payment scheme. The NFU’s president, Tom Bradshaw, explained in a Financial Times interview that some farmers have resorted to rewilding or cultivating crops intended for biofuels, as traditional methods become less sustainable.
The government has been urged by Bradshaw to utilise the £258 million underspend from the environmental department to assist farmers in navigating the agricultural transition. This funding, he believes, could be crucial in bridging the gap left by subsidy reductions, especially as poor harvests due to record rainfall have intensified challenges. As the Budget announcement on 30 October approaches, the NFU’s calls for financial support are becoming increasingly pressing.
Bradshaw addressed the potential risk of farmers opting out of farming activities altogether if the government fails to deliver an adequate support package. He warns of a scenario where farms are converted into habitats for wildlife, such as birds and bees, should agricultural operations become untenable without proper planning and investment initiatives in place.
The introduction of the Environmental Land Management scheme has provided some relief by offering payments to farmers who engage in activities that enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact. However, Bradshaw notes that farmers are often participating out of necessity rather than choice, as many remain uncertain about the benefits of joining such schemes due to a lack of comprehensive assessments from the government.
Additional concerns were raised regarding the government’s handling of the flood recovery scheme and the ambiguity surrounding the disclosure of whether unspent budget funds from previous fiscal periods will be allocated effectively. In response, a spokesperson from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) emphasised the government’s commitment to restoring stability and trust within the sector, unveiling plans for a new deal aimed at driving rural economic growth and fortifying food security.
The situation underscores the pressing need for government intervention to ensure the sustainability of British agriculture.
