Business News

Did you know that two people die or are seriously injured each year in the UK when their machinery makes contact with overhead power lines? Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks is advocating for farmers to be aware of the power lines around them in an effort to keep them safe and accident-free.

The cost of agricultural vehicle and machinery fires was up by 35% in 2022, according to NFU Mutual.

Changes to ELMS will offer improved access for upland farmers, as well as improved options under Countryside Stewardship for 2023.

Taking on board the key recommendations of the Rock Review, Defra has today (24th May) announced new measures to support the long-term sustainability of the tenant farming sector, including the launch of a Farm Tenancy Forum and a consultation on appointing a Tenant Farming Commissioner in England.

Following the penultimate revision of the Agriculture (Wales) Bill on Tuesday 16th May, the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) is calling for further amendments to address concerns surrounding the economic viability of agricultural businesses and provide support to new and young entrants to the industry.

Rural road users are being urged to take extra care during the summer months, as latest claims data from NFU Mutual reveals a heightened risk of collisions involving agricultural vehicles between the start of May and the end of September.

At the recent Farm to Fork Summit at No10 Downing Street, attended by Clarkson’s Farm stars Kaleb Cooper and ‘Cheerful’ Charlie Ireland, the Prime Minister set out ambitions to cut down red tape and make it easier for UK farmers to diversify their incomes, such as by converting farm buildings into shops or restaurants.

Following a recent report calling Defra’s IT systems ‘outdated’ and ‘difficult to use’, the National Pig Association (NPA) has urged the government body to address the shortfalls identified in its systems to ensure quick and effective response to disease outbreaks.

Yesterday’s Food Summit hosted by Rishi Sunak was hailed a success by industry groups, who now urge the government to follow up on commitments made with prompt actions to restore national food security and build resilience in the domestic supply chain.

At the first ever UK Farm to Fork Summit hosted by Rishi Sunak at Downing Street today (16th May), the Prime Minister announced extensive measures to strengthen food security and supply chain resilience, with investment in new technologies, further support for horticulture, and protecting farmers’ interests in trade deals being among the highlights.

A toddler was pronounced dead at the scene after police were called to reports of a collision involving a tractor in Buckland Brewer.

Producers in the red meat and dairy sectors could benefit from long-term opportunities following the UK’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a trade modelling analysis published by the AHDB today (15th May) has revealed.