Public support for farmers remains high following the autumn Budget. Let’s keep it that way, says Fen Tiger When times are tough, farmers stand together. And that is exactly what we did after the autumn Budget delivered a devastating blow to our livelihoods. The government decision to impose a... Read more

• Strategy to create a healthier nation • Government to set out expectations • Support nature friendly farmscall Industry leaders have welcomed news that a national food strategy will be created by the government during the first half of 2025. Defra secretary Steve Reed said he wanted the new... Read more

• Defra due to make announcement soon • Existing agreements continue as usual • Change affects existing applications A long-awaited update on the future of Defra’s capital grant scheme is expected early this year, says the government. It follows widespread anger and frustration after capital grants were quickly closed... Read more

• Farmland market faces period of change • Flexibility can promote success • Most lettings are still bare land Changes in government policy are likely to impact the tenanted farm sector, with uncertainty typically leading to shorter-term lets, says a study. The farm let sector remained stable in 2023,... Read more

Higher death toll on rural highways Fatal accidents on rural roads could be reduced following the launch of new guidance from safety campaigners. Some 969 people died on rural roads in 2023, according to the latest Department for Transport (DfT) figures. The death toll is some 70% higher than... Read more