Farmers and conservation groups have raised alarms over a potential £10 billion cut to the agricultural budget, warning that such a move could have disastrous consequences for nature and rural businesses.
Joint Letter to Government
A joint letter from a dozen major rural industry organizations has been sent to food security and rural affairs minister Daniel Zeichner. The letter, signed by groups including the National Trust, RSPB, Country Land & Business Association (CLA), and Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW), emphasizes that slashing the budget would undermine the government’s environmental goals.
The letter states:
"Many of the environmental features present in the countryside enjoyed by the public will be under threat and will disappear. This would leave a poor legacy for this government."
Contributions of Farmers
The groups highlight that farmers have already made significant contributions to reducing carbon emissions since Sir Keir Starmer’s government took office last July. However, they expressed surprise when applications for this year’s Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) were abruptly closed in March.
Importance of Environmental Land Management
Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme payments are crucial for meeting statutory targets related to environmental improvement, including halting biodiversity decline. Farmers can offer more than just food security; they also support local communities through sustainable practices.
Voices from the Farming Community
One farmer expressed concerns about the future following the SFI shutdown, stating:
"We’re not going back to the old way."
Chancellor’s Spending Review
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is preparing for her spending review next week, which could result in a £10 billion reduction in agriculture budgets. Campaigners warn that this would devastate the farming industry, leading to severe consequences for:
- Wildlife habitats
- Soil quality
- Water quality
- Air quality
- Climate change resilience
- Biodiversity loss
- Ecosystem services
- Pollinators
- Human health and well-being
- Economic growth and jobs
Call for Responsible Decision-Making
FUW president Glyn Roberts criticized the potential cuts, stating:
"This is not sustainable or responsible decision-making. We urge Chancellor Rachel Reeves not to make drastic cuts but instead invest more money into our vital sector."
Government’s Commitment
A spokesperson from Defra stated:
"We are committed to supporting farmers to deliver net zero while improving biodiversity through schemes like ELM."
The future of agriculture and environmental sustainability hangs in the balance as the government considers these significant budget cuts.
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