The recent Labour General Election win has sparked significant reactions across the farming industry. With Sir Keir Starmer’s new government at the helm, industry leaders and organisations are assessing what this political shift means for British agriculture.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw: A reset moment for British Agriculture
Tom Bradshaw, President of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), described the election result as a “reset moment for British agriculture.” He emphasised that while Labour’s manifesto acknowledges the importance of food security, the new government’s primary focus should be on revitalising farm business confidence. Bradshaw noted several key policies from Labour’s manifesto that the NFU is keen to see actioned, including:
- Ensuring the new Environmental Land Management Schemes work for all farm businesses.
- Setting core standards for food imports.
- Boosting public procurement.
Bradshaw also highlighted the need for effective import controls, supply chain fairness, investment in infrastructure, and a flexible planning system. Additionally, he stressed the importance of continuing efforts to eradicate bovine TB, citing a 56% decline in TB outbreaks due to comprehensive and science-based eradication plans.
National Pig Association: Continuing a close working relationship
Lizzie Wilson, Chief Executive of the National Pig Association, expressed her eagerness to continue working closely with Steve Reed and the Labour Defra team. She congratulated Sir Keir Starmer on his historic victory and underscored the need to address challenges such as African Swine Fever in Europe and ensuring fairness in the supply chain for pig farmers.
Meat and Poultry Processors: Ensuring access to skilled labour
The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) emphasised the critical need for access to skilled and affordable labour in the meat and poultry processing industry. Tom Goodger, who manages membership communications at AIMS, stressed the importance of restoring frictionless movement of POAO products into mainland Europe, advocating for a veterinary agreement with the EU. Goodger also called for a reclassification of individuals who disrupt supply chains from “activists” to “criminals,” urging the new government to take a firm stance on this issue.
Livestock Auctioneers Association: Concerns about policy and taxes
Chris Dodds, Executive Secretary of the Livestock Auctioneers Association, expressed discomfort with Labour’s pre-election policy suggestions, particularly around the badger cull and potential tax increases. Dodds emphasized the need to maintain tax benefits for the farming industry and looks forward to seeing Labour’s detailed plans for the sector.
Tenant Farmers Association: Clarity on food and farming priorities
Robert Martin, Chair of the Tenant Farmers Association (TFA), urged the new government to clarify its food and farming priorities. In a letter to Sir Keir Starmer, Martin called for the implementation of the Rock Review recommendations, fairness in the supply chain, and a balanced policy framework that addresses food, environmental, and energy security.
Countryside Landowners Association: Learning from the rural community
Victoria Vyvyan, President of the Countryside Landowners Association (CLA), stressed the importance of the new government listening to and learning from the rural community. She highlighted the potential economic growth rural businesses can generate with the right support, closing the productivity gap and creating jobs and prosperity.
Agricultural Property Relief: Potential tax implications
Guy Coggrave, Managing Director of GSC Grays, warned of potential tax shifts under the new Labour government, which could impact land and farm sales, particularly in Northern England. He highlighted the importance of maintaining favourable tax regimes, such as Agricultural Property Relief (APR), and advised landowners to ensure their farms are active enterprises to benefit from these reliefs.
The farming industry is closely monitoring these developments, with leaders and organisations ready to work with the new government to ensure the continued growth and sustainability of British agriculture.