Devolved nations respond to England’s SFI debacle

Farmers in the devolved regions are urging their governments to learn the lessons of the current Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) debacle in England, to produce schemes that are workable, well-funded, and encourage producer engagement.

This comes following news that Defra has closed the 2024 SFI scheme with immediate effect, and without warning.

Farmers’ Union of Wales president Ian Rickman said the uncertainty and outrage in England “emphasises the need for the Welsh government to deliver a workable, post-Brexit funding framework that encourages sustainability, but also delivers security and stability for Welsh farmers.”

See also: NFU fury at Defra’s ‘shattering blow’ to farmers over SFI

Farmers in Meirionnydd were also hopeful that lessons will be learned for Wales.

Bala beef and sheep farmer Geraint Davies said: “We hope Wales takes this as a warning sign and doesn’t follow suit. The Sustainable Farming Scheme [SFS] is being developed, and we must grasp the opportunities this brings.

“Farmers in England have had the rug pulled from under their feet – it doesn’t send the right signals for producing food alongside nature and climate recovery.”

Alun Edwards, who farms beef and sheep near Dolgellau, added: “What’s happened in England was almost inevitable. Defra have proved themselves to not be fit for purpose again.

“Despite the same colour government here in Wales, we’re lucky to have people who know how to create and run schemes. Wales is left watching England and we have a plan until the end of the year – we do need some clarity on funding here now though.

“Given the good track record of the Welsh government in paying farmers, and knowing our English counterparts have always had problems with that, I’m hopeful.”

The Welsh government has reiterated its support to the industry, highlighting that ministers maintained £238m for the Basic Payment Scheme in 2025.

It also pointed to a range of SFS preparatory schemes, which have been announced for 2025 including Habitat Wales Scheme and an Organic Support Payment, plus additional application windows for other schemes.

Scotland

Scotland’s rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon also pointed out that Scotland remains committed to maintaining direct payments, supporting food production and providing vital stability to rural communities.

“We will continue to work closely with the industry to develop new support with them, to improve the sustainability of farming and food production in Scotland.”

The Ulster Farmers’ Union declined to comment on Defra pulling the plug on the SFI, pointing out that their agricultural budget is ring-fenced.