Norfolk MP George Freeman has accused the government of putting food security at risk by prioritising Net Zero over farming. Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Freeman (pictured right) said swathes of farmland risked being lost under subsidised solar panels generating expensive electricity as the government “rushed” to... Read more

Fury at closure of  Sustainable Farming Incentive Farm leaders have urged the government to renew its commitment to food production and the environment following a series of cuts and tax rises. The warning follows last month’s closure of the Sustainable Farming Incentive to new applications with immediate effect –... Read more

Hare coursers could face stiffer sentences and bigger fines following a consultation to clamp down on the criminal gangs at the heart of the problem. The Sentencing Council consultation on court guidelines when dealing with hare coursing offences follows a campaign by the NFU – and countless incidents across... Read more

• Treasury refuses to listen to farmers • Government ‘no interest’ in moving • Leaders propose compromise tax Industry leaders have pledged to fight on after the Treasury again refused to back down on plans to impose inheritance tax in farmers. It came after Treasury minister James Murray summoned... Read more

• Single farm owners at most risk • Retailers in government warning • Plan now for secure farm future More than 42,000 farms larger than 50ha (125 acres) will be affected by changes to inheritance tax rules, suggest the latest estimates. The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board has calculated... Read more

Youngsters are being encouraged to take part in this year’s Big Farmland Bird Count (BFBC) – the annual national census of farmland birds. Organised by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), the bird count provides vital data to help scientists and conservationists understand which species are in trouble... Read more

• Similar profits over next 12 months • Little increase in cost of key inputs • More changes due to farm support Farm profits will remain steady during the coming year – as overall output increases and key inputs look set to stay relatively stable, say experts. “Overall, profitability... Read more

From humble beginnings, the Goat Shed has been transformed into an award-winning farm diversification. A Norfolk farm shop which opened during the pandemic has become a huge success – and continues to go from strength to strength. Sam Steggles opened the Goat Shed Farm Shop and Kitchen less than... Read more

Farmers should take their time when making decisions following the government’s Budget tax-raid, delegates were told at last month’s Autumn Farming Conference. Organised by accountants Larking Gowen in partnership with the Country Land and Business Association, the conference was held on 5 November at the All Saints Hotel, Fornham... Read more

• NFU condemns lack of consultation • Destructive and bungled in delivery • ‘Farmers cannot afford this change’ Industry leaders have condemned the government for unveiling plans to impose inheritance tax on farmers without any consultation. Farming families were left stunned by the shock decision – announced by Chancellor... Read more