CLA announces Gavin Lane as new president

Norfolk farmer Gavin, who succeeds Victoria Vyvyan as the 57th president in the association’s 118-year history, has outlined the priorities that will be at the heart of his two-year tenure. 

Mr Lane grew up on his family farm on the edge of King’s Lynn in Norfolk. At 25, he started farming on a contract farming arrangement with his father and now owns and farms land on two separate arable farms totalling 1,200 acres, both with Countryside Stewardship schemes and using regenerative farming practices.  

He is involved with a family residential property portfolio and, with his wife Jane, has diversified into a holiday cottage letting business. 

Mr Lane has also chaired the Education Committee of the Worshipful Company of Farmers and is a Nuffield Scholar. 

His immediate priorities as CLA president will include campaigning against the government’s inheritance tax changes and working to secure certainty around agri-environmental schemes.  

Mr Lane is also committed to championing the positive impact of land management and the importance of intergenerational family businesses on the wider economy. 

He said: “Long-term family businesses are a force for good, and I believe the rural economy has vast potential. There are massive opportunities in the countryside, including for young people, and if we can unlock the planning system, that will make a big difference. 

“CLA members offer some of the best land stewardship in the world, at a cost-effective price to the taxpayer, and can help offer solutions on everything from housing to flood management. I want to champion that.” 

‘Businesses need stability’

Mr Lane added that CLA is not giving up the fight on inheritance tax changes.  

“The ELM schemes in England need to get back on track, and we need to better understand what the government’s vision is for the countryside, as it isn’t clear or transparent. 

“Businesses need stability; it leads to improved confidence and ultimately economic growth. We need a rural development policy that covers farming and family businesses for the next ten years. 

“It shouldn’t be about making ends meet but something that is really quite powerful and ambitious.” 

Me Lane is due to meet with DEFRA secretary Emma Reynolds on his first day, and one of his first tasks will be appearing at the CLA’s Rural Business Conference today.  

CLA confirmed that Joe Evans has been appointed the deputy president, while Eliza Ecclestone becomes vice president. 

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