The Future of Farming – An open letter from the PM

The Prime Minister, last week, wrote an open letter to the farming industry, setting out a plan to support British produce and its producers. Alongside a pledge to follow a six-point plan, ahead of the Farm to Fork Summit at Downing Street, the Prime Minister wrote the letter to all farmers throughout the land.

The open letter to British Farmers from Rishi Sunak explores the recent UK Farm to Fork Summit, held at 10 Downing Street, which set out a target of the maintenance of the current level of food produced domestically by the UK, whilst simultaneously “sustainably boosting production in sectors such as horticulture and seafood”. The letter directed to farmers and farming nationwide emphases Government’s recognition of the challenges faced by farmers, and issues such as the global pandemic, bird flu outbreak and the war in Ukraine were highlighted. Despite these challenges, the government acknowledges the resilience and adaptability demonstrated by British farmers, through their continuous provision of food for the nation.

As discussed in the letter, Government pledges to protect the interests of farmers by ensuring they receive a fair price for their produce. Steps have already been taken to improve transparency in the dairy and pork markets, and further reviews were announced within the letter for egg supply chains. The letter placed high importance on the promoting of technological advancements, which plan to further boost food production in the UK. Government has set out to invest up to £30 million on precision breeding technologies, which builds upon previous farming funding of £8 million over the past five years, as well as the Genetic Technology Act earlier this year. Additionally, a new working group will be established in order to facilitate the collaboration of plant breeders, food manufacturers and retailers, streamlining the process of delivering “produce from farms to the shelves”.

Recognising the significance of the horticulture sector, the government has promised to provide improve support for the future, as part of new farming schemes in order to boost production. Government has set out to replace the retained EU Fruit and Vegetable Producer Organisation Scheme for England when it closes in 2026 which will include controlled environment horticulture. Changes to national planning policies will provide further ease when constructing new glasshouses, and efforts to alleviate energy costs for this sector will be explored. Acknowledging the importance of seasonal workers in agriculture, Government plans to maintain the availability of 45,000 seasonal workers in 2024, with an additional 2,000 visas allocated for poultry workers, highlighting an uplift of 15,000 compared to 2022. Furthermore, the government will respond to the Independent Review of Labour Shortages in the Food Supply Chain in autumn 2023, ensuring that farmers have access to the labour they need during crucial planting seasons.

Government aims to accelerate work on water supply infrastructure, create flexible abstraction lines and support farmer-led groups in identifying local water resource schemes. Additionally, a review of planning barriers to farm diversification will be launched, allowing farmers greater freedom to utilise their existing agricultural infrastructure and contribute towards the wider rural economy. Government emphasises its commitments to boosting trade and export opportunities for British farmers. A new framework for trade negotiations will prioritise the protection of high food and welfare standards. Government plans to invest £2 million into global trade shows and supporting the GREAT food and drink campaign by providing £1.6, as well as introducing additional agri-food and drink attaches. Additional funding will be allocated to promote UK seafood exports, £1 million between 2025 and 2028, and support dairy businesses with £1 million in seizing export opportunities, specifically in the Asia-Pacific region.

The open letter to British Farmers highlights the UK Government’s strong support for farmers and the agricultural sector. By acknowledging the challenges faced by farmers and committing to various initiatives, the Government aims to enhance food security, promote sustainability, and boost economic growth. The outlined measures, including ensuring fair pricing, promoting technological advancements, addressing labour shortages, improving water supply, facilitating farm diversification, and expanding trade opportunities, demonstrate the government’s dedication to the success and resilience of British farmers.

If you are a farmer or landowner and would like to talk to one of our team members about the support available or your options for the future, please contact your local office on:

Ashby – 01530 877977

Atherstone – 01827 721380

Rugby – 01788 564680

Towcester – 01327 397979