The Farmers Weekly Podcast
The inside track on the biggest stories affecting UK agriculture - with Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Every Friday.
Episodes
Flaming June, Farming Roadmap, bovine TB, farm machinery 10 years post- Brexit, and green award for farm estate
This week, we examine whether the government’s long-awaited 25-year Farming Roadmap will deliver the certainty, confidence and investment farmers need. NFU president Tom Bradshaw gives his reaction to Defra’s plan, while we discuss profitability, agri-environment funding, climate resilience and the value of farming to the wider economy. We debate the impact of hot weather and this mont
Verdict on SFI budget, fertiliser warning, Red Tractor responds, and Only Farmers
Defra has finally unveiled the budget for its flagship Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme – but is £240 million enough to meet demand from farmers? Former Natural England agriculture head Geoff Sansome gives his verdict – and explains why thousands of farmers could still be left in limbo when existing agreements expire. We also bring you an exclusive interview with new Red Trac
Cereals 2026 at Clarkson's Farm: Does it still pay to grow combinable crops?
This live Cereals 2026 episode tackles one big question: with high input costs and mediocre grain prices will planting cereals this autumn be financially worthwhile? The discussion starts with markets and margins, including break-even wheat prices, grain carryover, milling wheat premiums and the risks of holding out for higher prices. Part Two looks at how growers can reduce risk through variety c
Relaunched SFI - what it means for you, High Court and abattoirs, Red Tractor, and Open Farm Sunday
This week, Defra confirms England’s Sustainable Farming Incentive will reopen for applications on 30 June – but only for some farmers, and with questions over budget. Farm business adviser Katie Hilton explains the key changes in SFI 26, including land use caps, no-till rules and revised payment rates. We also examine a High Court ruling which could mean lower meat inspection charges f
Carbon cash delays, farm assurance frustration, Minette Batters book, & the rise of regenerative supply chains
This week, farmers report delays receiving payments from soil carbon scheme Agreena – with some growers saying they are owed thousands of pounds. We examine the latest Farm Assurance Review and ask whether Red Tractor and other schemes can deliver fairer treatment for UK grain producers facing competition from unassured imports. We review Harvest, the new book by former NFU president Barones
Hare-coursing clampdown, tariffs cut on food imports, Beef Expo, & fertiliser from thin air
This week, police pledge tougher action on hare coursing after an Essex farmer suffers almost 200 incidents in eight months. The government unveils plans to slash tariffs on 100 food items imported into the UK. We examine the impact of food price controls on UK farmers. Beef sector leaders call for fairer pricing as the market eases ahead of the Beef Expo industry showcase at Melton Mowbray livest
Fuel and fertiliser fears deepen, Dyson’s farm future, pig markets, & a royal farming honour
Fuel shortages triggered by the Iran conflict could leave crops rotting in fields this harvest unless food production is prioritised. We hear from CAAV adviser Jeremy Moody, who warns that red diesel availability is now an immediate concern for arable farmers, with further uncertainty for autumn planting. We also visit Dyson Farming’s new research centre in Lincolnshire, where managing direc
Glyphosate ban - would it work? Licences for dairy and livestock farmers, beef price wobble and starter farm tenancy
This week, food and environmental groups call for a ban on pre-harvest glyphosate use. We look at the alternatives – and whether this could be the thin end of the wedge. We also hear why farm leaders are pushing back against proposals to extend environmental permitting to beef and dairy farms. Plus, has the beef bubble burst? AHDB analyst Hannah Clarke explains why cattle prices have eased &
Fertiliser - best time to buy, regenerative farm tenancies, AI bird counts, & TikTok cow-huggers
This week’s episode is brought to you with Bayer Crop Science. As fertiliser prices rise and new-season supplies tighten, we ask when farmers should buy — and whether a little-and-often approach is the best way to manage risk. We also look at a new 25-year regenerative farm business tenancy from the Duchy of Cornwall, and ask whether longer agreements could give tenants the confidence
Turmoil over autumn cropping – Clarkson hits out, Starmer tackled on red diesel, Cereals preview & farm safety
Celebrity farmer Jeremy Clarkson speaks out as soaring fuel and fertiliser costs force arable growers to rethink autumn cropping plans. MPs urge Kier Starmer to help reduce red diesel prices as they tell the prime minister the Iran war makes food security paramount. We preview this summer’s Cereals event – to be held on 10-11 June at Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds.
Legal challenge over unauthorised Traveller sites, setting the record straight on grain prices, and farmer runs marathon for dad and Sepsis Trust
In this episode, Travellers set up an unauthorised encampment in Hertfordshire and new planning rules face their biggest test yet. The situation has big implications for growers and livestock producers – as Louise finds out when she spoke to one local farmer affected by the development. How cereal farmers could secure a fairer share from the grain market and help mitigate the impact of risin
Help on new inheritance tax rules, electricity standing charges, farm management software, & dog attacks on sheep
In this episode, farm charities offer a listening ear as inheritance tax rules come into effect – leaving farming families facing a hefty bill following the death of a loved one. We’ve the latest on help for those who might be affected by the changes, including farmers who haven't yet taken advice. The Farming Community Network helpline is 03000 111 999 (7am to 11pm daily) or via
MPs launch farm profit campaign, Ensus bioethanol plant, spring lamb boom, and on-farm indoor ski slope
In this episode, an influential group of MPs launches a campaign to boost farm profitability. The Labour Rural Research Group has already had some success persuading the government to ease back on inheritance tax for farmers. We speak to Noah Law MP and ask: will their campaign be successful this time around? Lamb prices boom in Scotland – we find out why and how long the good
Red diesel prices reach new highs, Land Use Framework, upland farmers shut out of schemes, and farmer fends off industry challenges
In this episode, red diesel prices reach new highs as the Iran War escalates. The government unveils it’s long-awaited Land Use Framework – and says farmland must be managed differently and some must come out of production. There's concern for upland farmers who face being shut out of two flagship agri-environment schemes. And how one farmer is managing to make a profit – despite
Latest farm income figures, Natural England admits environmental payments aren’t delivering, and Nigel Farage under fire over chlorinated chicken
UK cereal farmers earn less than the minimum wage, according to the latest government figures. Why environmental payments aren’t delivering for growers and livestock producers. And Reform leader Nigel Farage is under fire after saying we shouldn’t worry about cheap imports of chlorinated chicken. Farm business income figures for England are published by Defra based on information colle
Iran War: Impact on UK fertiliser, fuel & food security
As war spreads across the Middle East, we look at the implications for UK farmers – including the impact on fertiliser, fuel and food security. In a volatile market, we examine the latest information on prices and availability – and what you can do to secure vital farm inputs. Supply chains both up and down from the farm gate have already been affected as the world gets to
Revamped SFI payment rates, fly-tipping, NFU elections, & farm minister Angela Eagle
Just what is the government’s long-term plan for farm support? We’ve an exclusive interview with Defra farm minister Angela Eagle. We get to grips with the latest proposals for the revamped Sustainable Farming Incentive – how your business will be affected. A campaigning farmer hits out over lack of action on fly tipping – and takes Defra secretary Emma Reynolds to tas
Big drop in farmland sales, £100m landscape recovery scheme, Red Tractor, winter bean warning, & storing winter rainfall
In this episode, we discuss the reasons behind a big drop in farmland sales – and it isn't all to do with inheritance tax. We join dozens of farmers who’ve teamed up to create the UK’s biggest ever landscape recovery project – worth £100m We've the latest on the Red Tractor farm assurance scheme; and we've a chocolate spot disease warning for winter bean growers. And
How to farm profitably without subsidies, how to sell wheat for £660/tonne, harness the marketing power of social media, & farmer walks 150 miles to London for charity
In this episode, as concern grows about funding for the government's flagship agri-environment scheme, we look at ways to farm profitably without subsidies. Farmers who are doing just that share their secrets at the Norfolk Farming Conference and the BASE UK conference in Huntingdon. They include Nottinghamshire farmer Joe Howard, of Howard Farms and Grassroots Farming; and Cotswolds farmer H
Winter floods, drainage and soil health, Big Farmland Bird Count, closer UK-EU links and farming, & Mind Your Head week
As a wet winter sees leaves many fields under water, a special drainage scheme is delivering benefits for farmers and the environment. We pay a special visit to the Allerton Project at the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust farm in Leicestershire. How a closer relationship with the EU could benefit UK growers and livestock producers – if we can get the balance right. Read the EFRA Commit
Judge orders review of inheritance tax, beef & dairy licence to farm, cereal yields & YEN future
Did the government break its own rules when it imposed inheritance tax on farmers? The High Court orders an urgent two-day judicial review of the Chancellor’s plans to hit family-owned businesses with death duties. Beef and dairy producers could have to pay a licence to farm – we find out what buying an environmental permit could mean for your farm business. And we meet the arable grow
Farmers Weekly Question Time: AICC Agronomy Conference 2026
Welcome to this special episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast – the Farmers Weekly Question Time Event at the 2026 Association of Independent Crop Consultants Conference. Recorded in front of a live audience on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, farmers and other conference delegates quiz industry leaders on topical agricultural issues. Our panel is: Baroness Minette Batters, author of the Fa
Why farming needs better leaders, illegal meat imports, lamb welfare and tail-docking, & Society of Agriculture
In this episode, failure to test illegal meat imports could leave livestock farmers exposed to animal disease, say food safety experts. Sheep producers face a government clampdown on tail docking and lamb castration – how you can have your say on animal welfare. And why farming needs better leaders: how a professional approach – and chartered status – could help recruit more peop
Doubts over net zero for farming, arable profits and independent agronomy, NFU leadership challenge, farmland market, and Women in Agriculture
In this episode, questions are raised over agriculture's Net Zero ambition after the NFU makes two climate change experts redundant. With cereal margins under pressure, can independent agronomists help make arable farming profitable again? Farm leader Tom Bradshaw faces a leadership challenge from NFU deputy president David Exwood: we preview next month's union elections. And we examine the prospe
Farmers Weekly Question Time: Oxford Farming Conference 2026
Welcome to this special episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast – the Farmers Weekly Question Time Event at the 2026 Oxford Farming Conference. Recorded in front of a live audience on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, farmers and other conference delegates quiz industry leaders on topical agricultural issues. Our panel is:- Tom Bradshaw, NFU president- Henry Tufnell, Labour MP for Mid- and South Pemb
Should we continue campaign against inheritance tax? Can the government win back farmers' trust? First details on relaunched Sustainable Farming Incentive, & New Year Honours for farming
Can the government really win back farmers' trust in 2026? Or is it a bridge too far? Defra secretary Emma Reynolds uses the Oxford Farming Conference to set out her vision for the relaunched Sustainable Farming Incentive. After the Treasury's partial climbdown on inheritance tax, should we continue campaigning for further concessions? And we take a look at the New Year Honours for farming. This e
Inheritance tax special - what Christmas climbdown means for your farm business
In this special episode, we examine what the government's partial U-turn on inheritance tax means for your farm business. It follows the Treasury decision to water down plans to impose 20% inheritance tax on farm assets worth more than £1m. In a major concession the government has announced that it is increasing the threshold for inheritance tax on farm assets from £1m to £2.5m.
Farming Profitability Review: will it work? Interview with Minette Batters; How to forge your farming future - Oxford Farming Conference preview; farmers wanted to grow hazelnuts
In this episode, we get to grips with the long-awaited Farming Profitability Review and its 57 recommendations for government. Will it really make a difference? We've a special interview with review author Minette Batters. How you can forge a better future for your farm business – we preview the 2026 Oxford Farming Conference. And we meet Suffolk farmer Tom McVeigh, who is carving
Nightmare before Christmas: Battle to save biodiversity net gain, cross-resistance fungicide warning, UK-France lamb war, & Red Tractor reviews standards
In this episode, is the government about to backtrack on plans to pay farmers for creating and improving wildlife habitats. We report from the frontline on the battle to save biodiversity net gain. A warning for arable growers looking to use two key fungicides together – how to avoid cross-resistance. Lamb war with France – what it means for UK sheep producers. And how Red Tractor plan
Should we be more upbeat about farming? New Landscape Recovery scheme, risk v reward – latest wheat varieties, rebel Labour MP suspended over IHT, and African swine fever hits Spanish pig exports
In this episode, experts voice concern at a get-out clause in government plans for a £500m Landscape Recovery scheme for farmers. We look at the opportunities for growers and livestock producers from Defra's Environmental Improvement Plan – and ask: is it fatally flawed? How much risk should you accept when chasing high yields? We get to grips with the new recommended list for cereals
Police face questions over banned London tractor protest, inheritance tax & what Budget means for your farm business, and National Fruit Show celebration
In this episode, Metropolitan Police chiefs face questions after banning protesting farmers from bringing tractors to London. As the government makes a small concession on plans to impose inheritance tax on farmers, we examine what the Budget means for your farm business. Budget analysis by: Stuart Maggs, Howes Percival Sam Kirkham,. Albert Goodman Simon Gooderham, Cheffins And we pay a visit to
Update on Sustainable Farming Incentive, new campaign against inheritance tax, food inflation, CLA conference, and Tesco launches environmental baselining
In this episode, Defra secretary Emma Reynolds reveals the government's latest thinking on relaunching the Sustainable Farming Incentive. Ms Reynolds was speaking during a Q&A session at the Country Land and Business Association annual conference in London. Farmers return to Westminster to protest against inheritance tax. Can we really expect any changes in this month's Budget? Food price infl
Torturous wait for Defra's vision for farming, crowds flock to Agritechnica, herbicide ban threat, & hundreds pay tribute to David Richardson
Just why is it taking so long for the UK government to set out its vision for farming? As Defra secretary Emma Reynolds prepares to give her first major speech to farmers, vital reports and strategies remain unpublished. The government says some will be published before Christmas - others later. We ask incoming CLA president Gavin Lane what Emma Reynolds needs to say when she addresses this month'
Farm Profitability Review - Minette Batters makes 57 recommendations, MPs call for farm productivity boost, & how growers are being rewarding for regenerative farming
In this episode, Defra is considering 57 recommendations after Minette Batters submits her long-awaited Farm Profitability Review. We take a look at some of main themes – including better collaboration between farmers and a closer relationship between industry and government. A cross-party group of MPs say urgent action is needed to improve agricultural productivity and avert the loss of UK
Supermarkets refuse to engage with farm assurance review, gene-editing and classical swine fever, & why the world needs more red meat
In this week’s podcast, some of Britain’s biggest supermarkets are refusing to engage with a review of UK farm assurance schemes. A progress report on improving schemes like Red Tractor has struggled to gather input from Britain's big retail chains. Just three supermarkets have responded on an individual basis with the British Retail Consortium (BRC) refusing to participate. Could a br
Legal advice over backdated milk price cuts, Scottish farming future funding, & encouraging the next generation into agriculture
In this week’s podcast, dairy farmers could launch legal action over back-dated milk price cuts.Can a partnership approach between industry leaders and the Scottish government aims to deliver a better future for farming?And we discover that urban youngsters often know much more about farming than we think they do.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impe
Banned Red Tractor advert - what can we learn? Farm management company serves notice on 8,000ha, future for contract farming, & stewardship extension
In this episode, we examine the lessons to be learned after the UK advertising watchdog bans a TV ad for Red Tractor farm assurance.We look at the future for arable farming following Velcourt's decision to serve notice on 8,000ha of contract farming agreements.Are family farms better placed to ride out tough times?And is a last-minute extension for Mid Tier Countryside Stewardship a sticking plast
Government could ease inheritance tax pain, British Food Fortnight - should Defra do more?, fertiliser market, & bursary pays farm student fees
Government ministers are said to be looking at easing plans to impose inheritance tax on farmers.Civil servants are reportedly looking again at increasing the proposed threshold which would exempt more farming families from the tax.Could the government be working harder to put more British food on British plates? Yes, says Alexia Robinson, the food campaigner behind British Food Fortnight.We take
Big delay to flagship green scheme, milk market tumble, bluetongue latest, farm protest at Labour conference, & Farmers Weekly Awards
Farmers in England face significant cashflow shortfalls following further delays to the government's Sustainable Farming Incentive.The flagship scheme is not expected to reopen for applications until April 2026 at the earliest due to budget constraints and IT issues.Protesting farmers vent their frustration at the government's farming policies at the Labour party conference in Liverpool.We've a sp
Special czar to oversee tenant farming, AI(Live): how artificial intelligence is boosting livestock productivity, & Future of Food exhibition at the Science Museum
In this week’s podcast, we have a special interview with tenant farming commissioner Alan Laidlaw following his appointment.What does his new role mean for landlords and tenants? And how does he see a code of practice for the tenanted sector working in England?How artificial intelligence is helping livestock farmers increase productivity in a way that boosts income while benefiting the environment
Growers rip up autumn cropping plans, rebel MPs battle inheritance tax, farmers told to repay environmental funding, & AgriFuture Forum welcomes new entrants
As growers rip up autumn cropping plans following another challenging season, we look at ways to get the best for your farm business.A new group of rural Labour MPs says it is backing British food producers – and launches its own action plan for the countryside. Will it make a difference?We look at the fallout after the Rural Payments Agency tries to reclaim Sustainable Farming Incentive funding f
Stewardship cliff-edge, Back British Farming Day, Agroforestry Show & beef-calf strategy at Dairy Day
In this episode, thousands of farmers face a cliff-edge when their countryside stewardship agreements expire – with nothing to replace them.Those with mid-tier schemes running out at the end of this year – just three months away – are left facing a stark choice: maintain beneficial environmental features at their own expense, or destroy them up and plant them with crops to earn some much-needed in
New Defra secretary Emma Reynolds – what can we expect? Confusion over funding for Young Farmers, bovine TB, and school launches BTEC in agriculture
In this episode, we look at what farmers can expect from new Defra secretary Emma Reynolds - her policies and personality.To discuss that and more, we’re joined by Jonathan Reynolds, director of external affairs at the Country Land and Business Association.The National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs says it has been told it will no longer receive a Defra grant – Defra says the suggestion is "f
Farmers help firefighters battle huge moorland blaze, hay and straw shortage, pig and poultry pollution, & warning over safe tractor driving
In this episode, farmers are helping firefighters battle a huge moorland blaze in Yorkshire.Farmers are using slurry tankers to deliver water to fire crews fighting flames which have engulfed thousands of acres of the Yorkshire Moors.Hot weather and lack of rain has seen hay and straw is imported into the UK from France to help drought-hit livestock farmers.Pollution from pig and poultry productio
Oilseed rape - surprise crop of the year? Sugar beet price, food price inflation, more on electronic tagging, and tributes to David Richardson
Harvest has been hugely variable this summer – with many growers in prime arable areas reporting terrible cereal yields.But has one crop bucked the trend?After years of decline and disappointment, oilseed rape is having a bit of a moment.Could it, perhaps, be crop of the year?Is £30/t an acceptable price for sugar beet? We find out.We’ve more on electronic tagging for cattle.Just what’s driving up
AHDB harvest error, alternative inheritance tax plan, Vivergo bioethanol plant, drought, & electronic ID for cattle
A data error means the latest harvest progress report over-estimates yields – and triggers an investigation by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.Why wasn't the report right in the first place?Industry leaders give a mixed reaction to the latest inheritance tax proposals.And one of Britain's biggest livestock auctioneers voices concern at differences in electronic identification sy
Kemi Badenoch hits out on inheritance tax, dairy farmer crowdfunds renewable energy project, harvest update & deep dive into autumn weed control
In this episode, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch visits an Essex farm – meeting farmers to talk about inheritance tax.We’ve an exclusive interview.We meet the Yorkshire dairy farmer who is starting a renewable energy company – and powering up the local community.And we take an in-depth look at autumn weed control.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and
Donald Trump on farm inheritance tax, 4WD electric pickup 'gamechanger', Clarkson's Farm goes down with bovine TB, & farmer leaves £500k to charity
In this episode, Donald Trump leaves UK prime minister Keir Starmer in stony silence as he explains why American farmers don’t pay inheritance tax.But would British farmers really be better off if President Trump was in charge of UK agriculture?Is it time to get an electric farm pickup – we look at the latest fully electric truck as it goes on sale in the UK.Jeremy Clarkson’s farm goes down with b
'Godfather' of regenerative agriculture Gabe Brown on future of farming, support for nature-friendly food production, & plan to monetise farm data
In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the future of regenerative agriculture and examine whether it is right for your farm.We have a special interview with American farmer Gabe Brown, described as the 'god father' of regenerative agriculture, as he visits the UK.We discuss the role of government support when it comes to agro-ecology and nature-friendly farming practices.And we look at plans
Former British Lion Tom Youngs talks rugby and farming, progress on national food strategy, Sustainable Farming Scheme for Wales, & variable catchy harvest
In this episode, former British Lion Tom Youngs shares his thoughts on farming and rugby.We run the rule on the government’s latest iteration of a national food strategy - and discuss the implications for farmers.NFU Cymru president Aled Jones voices concern about the newly announced Sustainable Farming Scheme for Wales.And we look at the ups and downs of harvest ahead of the market prices.This ep
Drought and wildfire warning, new Tesco boss backs farmers, parts suppliers frustration, growing olives in Lincolnshire
In this episode, as drought is declared in Yorkshire, we look at the impact of the dry weather across the country.Scotland faces a wildfire warning – following a 30,000 acre blaze which saw farmers and game-keepers come together to fight the flames.Tesco's new chief executive Ashwin Prasad gets out on farm – just a week into the job – saying he wants to work in partnership with farmers.Hugh has a
Groundswell 2025: £150m in capital grants for farmers, former Defra adviser on farming future, how to unlock nature markets, big business invests in farming, AHDB chief exec plans for farm levies
In this episode, a former Defra adviser says the government must win back farmers' trust if it is serious about successful agriculture.The government unveils £150m in capital grants for farmers – we look at what the money is likely to fund and how it will work.We find out about new funding opportunities for farmers – thanks to private investment from big corporations.We spend two days at Groundswe
Early start for harvest 2025, moisture meters, why it's gone quiet on inheritance tax, Fram Farmers trials day, & CowPie Country Show
In this episode, we preview the early start to harvest 2025 as the first combines roll into barley crops.One year after the Labour came to power, we ask why farm leaders have gone so quiet on government plans to impose inheritance on farmers.We visit a Fram Farmers trials day in Suffolk – and Hugh goes to his local Cowpie Country Fair.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Joha
Red Tractor must avoid 'fudged' reform, bluetongue restriction havoc in Wales, Scottish beef at the Royal Highland Show, Farming Rules for Water, and more on skylarks at Cereals
In this episode, a former NFU combinable crops chairman sats the pace of change at Red Tractor is too slow to win back farmers' confidence.Cross-border bluetongue restrictions on livestock brought from England into Wales threaten to cause havoc, say farm leaders.We've the latest on muck spreading and Defra's Farming Rules For Water.And we visit the Royal Highland Show for a beefy announcement.This
Verdict on government spending review, outrage at imported supermarket beef, bumper Cereals event, & top accolade for 21-year-old oat variety
In this episode, UK farm leaders voice dismay after three major British supermarkets start selling beef from Australia, Uruguay and New Zealand.Is the government's spending review really better than expected when it comes to farming and the environment?We discuss the implications of departmental cuts at Defra – and the impact for growers and livestock producers.We spend two days at the Cereals eve
Spending review - likely impact on farming, Cereals event preview, and getting the message across on Open Farm Sunday
In this episode, we look at the likely impact of the government's spending review on UK farming and the environment.We have a sneak preview of this month’s Cereals event – and why reducing carbon emissions isn't as easy as people might think.And why it is so important to get the farming message across on Open Farm Sunday.This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Lou
Farmers quit UK to farm in France, nature-friendly farm support concerns, North Sheep, Red Tractor latest, yellow rust gene failure confirmed, & Madam Tussauds celebrates national sausage roll day
In this episode, a UK farming couple quit the UK to go farming in France, saying they feel more valued by the French government.Defra declines to comment on reports that the government's Spending Review will slash the budget for nature friendly farming.We've the latest on high-profile movers and shakers in the farming sector, as Assured Food Standards appoints a permanent chairman for Red Tractor.
Janet Hughes 'hard act to follow at Defra', new AHDB chair, Green Farm Collective, regenerative wheat & wool, UK-EU veterinary deal, & beef under the climate cosh
In this episode, as senior civil servant Janet Hughes decides to leave Defra, we look at what it means for the Sustainable Farming Incentive.It's a revolving door at the AHDB, with the appointment of a new chair – and the announcement that chief executive Graham Wilkinson is moving on.Scottish livestock leaders say a climate committee report calling for less beef consumption is based on flawed evi
US Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins talks trade deals in London; delay inheritance tax plan, MPs tell government; SFI reopens for 3000 farmers; & Defra's food strategy
In this episode, MPs say the government should delay plans to impose inheritance tax on farmers – and revise its controversial policy.Defra announces a partial reopening of the Sustainable Farming Incentive for growers and livestock producers in England.US agriculture secretary Brooke Rollins tells Farmers Weekly that poultry and pork are "on the table" to be next for a trade deal between the USA
What next for the Sustainable Farming Incentive? Impact of US-UK trade deal on farming, small abattoirs, & silage trailer safety
In this episode we look at the future of the Sustainable Farming Incentive agri-environment scheme. Natural England head of agriculture Peter Craven tells us the scheme will return – and be better for farming and the environment, albeit with a likely smaller budget.We assess the impact of the UK-US trade deal on the beef and arable sectors – and ask whether it is the shape of things to come?MPs de
Hottest May Day – crops swelter as temperatures soar, ground-breaking farm tenancies, Rothamsted redundancies, & food security – could rationing return?
Record-breaking temperatures see crops sweltering in the spring sunshine. A worry or just another challenge for arable growers?UK former home secretary James Cleverly and Save British Farming campaigners say the government must take food security more seriously.As the UK commemorates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe and the end of World War Two, we ask, could we really see the return of r
Farmers Weekly Question Time: Tenant Farmers Conference 2025 - Farmers Weekly Question Time
This episode of the Farmers Weekly Question Time Podcast examines a ground-breaking new farm tenancy agreement. Developed by the Crown Estate and the Tenant Farmers Association, the agreements are called Environmental Farm Business Tenancies (eFBTs). EFBTs are 15-year-long tenancy agreements which encourage tenant farmers to diversify in a way which benefits both the tenant and the landlord. The e
Will your children sink the family farm? Inheritance tax and succession planning, dairy farms dump milk after processing breakdown, & why climate-friendly farmers are turned off by Net Zero
In this episode, one in three farmers fear their children will sink the farm business when it's handed on to the next generation.Why farming families are walking a tightrope between succession and inheritance tax.Dairy producers are forced to dump thousands of litres of milk after a breakdown at a key processing plant in Lancashire.We've all the latest commodity prices.And we find out why climate-
Endangered hedges, bonanza beef vision, grant fund to ADOPT innovation, foot-and-mouth meat and dairy import ban, & sweary singing farmers
In this episode, we get to grips government grants to fund on-farm innovation and technology to improve productivity.With British Beef Week around the corner (23-30 April), we run the rule over the NFU's 10-year vision for the UK's beef industry.We look at why farm hedges could be the latest victim of the government's decision to close the Sustainable Farming Incentive to new applications.And we f
Minette's farm profitability review, should farmers really diversify? Resistant wheat shows signs of yellow rust, local food plan report, & auctioneer's giant red fibre glass cow goes missing
In this episode, the government appoints former NFU president Minette Batters to lead a Defra review to solve farming's 'profitability problem'.Her appointment – by Defra secretary Steve Reed – aims to help growers and livestock producers increase their profit and financial resilience.We ask three experts what Baroness Batters should really be looking at – and whether farmers should be encouraged
Bread strike & hot cross buns, Trump & tariffs, animal disease & border controls, AHDB levy board future, & Sustainable Farming Incentive latest
In this episode, livestock industry leaders warn of a devastating animal disease outbreak unless the government tightens border controls.MPs quiz. Defra minister Daniel Zeichner as cereal growers 'go on strike' in protest at government policies affecting UK farming.Will there really be no hot cross buns at Easter?We've the latest on the Sustainable Farming Incentive and how the Rural Payments Agen
Red Tractor pledges smarter farm audits, action plan to reduce pesticide usage, & vigilance needed after bird flu confirmed in sheep
In this episode, the Red Tractor assurance scheme responds to criticism by pledging to make farm audits easier for farmers.We speak to the Red Tractor interim chairman Alistair Mackintosh and operations director Philippa Wiltshire.Also in this episode – the government unveils long awaited plans to reduce pesticide usage by 10% within five years.We look at the likely impact on your farm business –
How to rescue the Sustainable Farming Incentive, farmers ramp up food production, pressure on spring seed and fertiliser, red diesel rumours, & why big business wants to invest in your farm
In this episode, farmers ramp up food production following the closure of the government's flagship environmental scheme.Arable growers who were preparing Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) applications are now drilling spring crops instead – with strong demand for spring seed and fertiliser.Natural England former head of agriculture Geoff Sansome says mistakes were made when drawing up the SFI –
Options for farmers locked out of Sustainable Farming Incentive, food security report, & is there a future for lab-grown meat?
Just why did the government close its flagship agri-environment scheme without warning?We examine the options for farmers unable to join Defra's Sustainable Farming Incentive.A new study says the government must take food security and sustainable farming much more seriously.Published by the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission, the report is called Paying the Price: Cheap food, big business
Emergency Podcast: Defra pulls plug on Sustainable Farming Incentive
In this emergency episode, we examine the implications of Defra's decision to stop accepting applications for its flagship agri-environment scheme.The shock announcement to draw a line under the Sustainable Farming Incentive was announced at 6pm Tuesday, 11 March.Defra gave farmers no notice of the decision, which came into effect with immediate effect, leaving would-be applicants high and dry.We
Rebel Labour MPs back farmers on inheritance tax, Pancake Day Rally, livestock mart hits out at 'keyboard warriors', climate change adaptation, & 'green' farmland market
In this episode, a growing number of 'rebel' Labour MPs are supporting farmers against the government on inheritance tax.We have an exclusive interview with Henry Tufnell, Labour MP for Mid- and South Pembrokeshire, who is calling for a government amnesty on the issue.A warm start to spring sees UK temperatures warmer than Madrid and Barcelona – and it's only the beginning of March.We find out how
Defra's not-so-new farm policies, Pancake Day Rally against inheritance tax, NFU conference 2025 special, & how to succeed at succession planning
In this episode, we examine Defra's latest raft of new policies to boost farm profitability.Just exactly how new are they?We scrutinise the keynote speech delivered by Defra secretary Steve Reed at the NFU's annual conference in London.We preview the Pancake Day Rally against government plans to impose 20% inheritance tax on farm assets worth more than £1 million.To register for the rally, click h
Farmers Weekly Question Time: Plumpton College - Farmers Weekly Question Time
Welcome to this special episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast – the Farmers Weekly Question Time Event at Plumpton College in East SussexRecorded in front of a live audience on Thursday, 20 February 2025, farmers and other conference delegates quiz industry leaders on topical agricultural issues.Our panel is: - James MacCleary, Liberal Democrat MP for Lewes & Lib Dem Europe spokesperson - Flav
Chink of light on inheritance tax, farming's 'pecking order', Scotland's new farm leader, oilseed rape challenges, & why farming is harder than rocket science
In this episode, we discuss the possible outcomes after government finally agrees to talks with farm leaders on inheritance tax.Have things gone too far? Were farming protestors right to force Keir Starmer to cut short a prime ministerial visit to Milton Keynes?And should farming be higher or lower on the government's pecking order?We speak to Aberdeenshire farmer Andrew Connan – NFU Scotland's ne
How to improve farm assurance, LEAF conference, colder weather on the way, upbeat DairyTech event, & Big Farmland Bird Count
In this episode, we look at the LEAF Marque - the farm assurance scheme that delivers benefits for consumers and the environment – as well as for farmers.We find out what makes it work, why it is becoming so popular – and why supermarkets are so keen to work alongside LEAF food producers.We speak to Oxbury Bank – the latest lender offering a special deal to farmers who want to farm more sustainabl
Defra plan to reduce UK farmland, bonkers beef prices, Fenland Soil conference, & banks back farmers on inheritance tax
In this episode, we look at government plans to reduce the area of UK farmland – and use it instead to restore nature and create wildlife habitats.The government's Land Use Framework for England – which is out for consultation – will earmark different areas of land for different uses.Objectives include food production, building 1.5 million homes this parliament, and helping to mitigate climate cha
Pea revival: can Pulse Pioneers save the planet? Farm assurance review: leadership culture under fire, spring fertiliser market, & inheritance tax - Farming Day of Unity
In this episode, we look at how a group of 'Pulse Pioneers' are sowing the seeds for a revival of Britain's pea and bean crops.Pulse crops have many benefits. They include better soil health, less reliance on chemical fertilisers and lower dependency on pesticides.But inconsistent performance can make them difficult to grow profitably. We look at possible answers – and the bigger picture.For more
Peak Power: LAMMA farm machinery show special, retail giant Morrisons backs farmers on inheritance tax, Shadow Defra secretary Victoria Atkins, & latest farm protest plans
In this episode, we discover how machinery manufacturers are making it easier for farmers to get their hands on the latest kit and technology.We visit the 2025 LAMMA farm machinery show – the two-day extravaganza bringing 40,000 visitors to the Birmingham NEC.We speak to farmers, machinery manufacturers and auctioneers – and get the lowdown on the prospects for the sector for the year ahead.As Mor
New deal or raw deal? Defra's big plan for farming; British farmers adopt French-style protests, Farming Day of Unity, & glyphosate resistant weeds confirmed in UK
In this episode, UK environment secretary Steve Reed pledges a better future for Britain's farmers. Is it a New Deal? Or is it a raw deal?Mr Reed's speech to this year's Oxford Farming Conference made much mention of food security and the need to increase agricultural productivity and profitability.Meanwhile, farmers say they will ramp up protest against government plans to impose 20% inheritance
Farmers Weekly Question Time: Oxford Farming Conference 2025 - Farmers Weekly Question Time
Welcome to this special episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast – the Farmers Weekly Question Time Event at the 2025 Oxford Farming Conference.Recorded in front of a live audience on Wednesday the 8th of January 2025, farmers and other conference delegates quiz industry leaders on topical agricultural issues.Our panel is: - Minette Batters, cross-bench peer & immediate past president, NFU - Grah
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