NFU calls Defra’s closure of SFI applications a “shattering blow” to farmers
Without warning, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has halted all Sustainable Farming Incentive applications.
Defra farming announcements made at 2025 NFU Conference
The 2025 NFU Conference saw Defra Secretary Steve Reed make a number of farming announcements, while Defra stood firm on IHT measures.
Activist group appeal dismissed by High Court, says BPC
Claims from an activist group that the Defra Secretary was acting unlawfully in allowing so-called “fast-growing” chickens have been dismissed by the High Court.
Government says commitment to farmers is “steadfast”
Government has announced that during the first week of December, it injected more than £343 million into the rural economy to benefit over 31,000 farmers.
Defra publishes 2024 UK Food Security Report
Defra has published its UK Food Security Report 2024, reporting that extreme weather events continue to have a “significant effect” on domestic production.
