The UK government has announced a new review to support arable farmers, aiming to tackle unfair practices in the combinable crops supply chain. This review is part of the government’s “New Deal for Farmers,” which seeks to protect farmers’ businesses and ensure they receive fairer returns for their hard work. The review will focus on providing farmers with clear, fair, and enforceable contracts, covering key aspects such as pricing, supply volumes, data, and dispute resolution.
Protecting Arable Farmers and Securing Fair Contracts
Arable farmers, particularly those involved in growing crops like wheat, barley, oilseeds, and pulses, will benefit from the government’s efforts to ensure fairer terms in their contracts. These crops, harvested using a combine harvester, are essential for food production, animal feed, and fuel. As a vital part of the UK’s food supply chain, the government’s new review will ensure that farmers are protected from unfair practices and get a fairer return for the produce they grow.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed emphasized the importance of supporting British farmers, who work tirelessly to produce world-class food. He pointed out that this review is a significant step toward giving arable farmers a stronger voice in the industry, offering them better protection and fairer returns for the food they grow.
A Government Committed to Fairer Farming Deals
The government’s commitment to supporting farmers is evident in the steps already taken to reduce costs and red tape for businesses in the farming sector. The government has worked to make supply chains more resilient, particularly for businesses that export to and import from the EU. These efforts aim to reduce costs for consumers and back British food with investments that ensure local producers benefit.
Additionally, the government is working to ensure that at least 50% of food supplied in public sector contracts comes from local producers or those meeting higher environmental standards. As part of the government’s broader “Plan for Change,” former NFU president Baroness Minette Batters has been appointed to lead reforms aimed at putting more money back in farmers’ pockets.
Continued Commitment to Fairness in the Farming Sector
The UK government has already implemented changes in other farming sectors, including the Fair Dealing (Milk) Regulations, which will come into effect in July 2024. The Fair Dealing (Pigs) Regulations, which have recently received parliamentary approval, also aim to secure better deals for farmers. These reforms are all part of a broader effort to build a fairer and more transparent supply chain that benefits both farmers and the public.
The government is also collaborating with devolved governments to ensure that the UK’s farming sector continues to grow in a fair and sustainable way. The formal public consultation on this new review will give farmers and other stakeholders an opportunity to share their experiences and contribute to shaping the future of the farming industry.
Looking Ahead: A Fairer Future for Farmers
The government’s review is an important step toward ensuring that arable farmers have the protection, support, and fair compensation they deserve. With continued investment in sustainable farming and a commitment to fairer deals across all sectors, the UK aims to build a more resilient and transparent agricultural system. This is crucial not only for farmers but for consumers who rely on locally produced, high-quality food.
