Farming industry failed by budget - conference heard

Held at Hexham Auction Mart, conference chair, Samantha Charlton, the AHDB’s Beef and Lamb Sector Director, highlighted the ‘shockwaves impacting our sector’, with rising costs, market uncertainty and regulatory pressures, noting that recent budget announcements had failed to address these urgent concerns.

Lord Inglewood opened the panel with a thought-provoking question: “What is the point of farming and owning land, and how does it fit into the wider world?” He urged attendees to consider this fundamental issue when shaping rural policy. Drawing on his experience in agricultural policy, Inglewood stressed the importance of balanced policies that support both environmental goals and economic sustainability. He concluded by encouraging responsible, self-sustaining land management practices.

Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner, MP for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, acknowledged the hardships farmers face, including recent floods, blue tongue, and avian flu. He assured the audience that compensation schemes were in place, announcing the immediate release of £60 million in funding. Zeichner also addressed the year's budget, which is the largest ever for agriculture, with a focus on food production, nature recovery, and environmental progress.

He confirmed that £1.8 billion would go toward Environmental Land Management schemes in 2025-26 and highlighted Labour's commitment to funding Weighbridge facilities for biosecurity. Zeichner also announced the appointment of England's first Commissioner for the Tenant Farming Sector.

Tim Farron, Lib Dem MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale, passionately discussed the barriers farmers face today, calling for a more responsive approach to agricultural policy. He criticized the government for creating policies that "disincentivize food production" and urged for fairer policies, especially regarding market access and rural support.