Scots and Welsh farming unions demand better budget

NFU Scotland says the Labour government must match its ambitions for food security with an increased multi-annual funding commitment for farming.

Labour’s election manifesto states “food security is national security” and it has made bold pledges to produce more food in the UK and create new markets for British exports.

NFUS is therefore calling for an increase of at least £1bn – from £3.7bn to £4.7bn – in the annual UK agriculture budget, with a step increase in the 17% of the budget (about £600m) that is currently allocated to Scotland.

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NFUS policy director Jonnie Hall highlighted the crucial role that Scotland plays in food production, climate change mitigation, and environmental stewardship.

He emphasised that Labour, having stated in its election manifesto that “food security is national security”, must back its words with action by providing the necessary funding to support British farming.

Mr Hall noted that achieving national food security goes beyond just food production; it also involves meeting climate change obligations, promoting nature recovery, and enhancing biodiversity.

He stressed that farming and crofting are essential to rural communities, supporting numerous jobs across the industry.

However, these goals cannot be met without adequate funding and support from both the UK government and devolved administrations.

“As an industry, we cannot do all of this without the right level of funding in place to help us do so,” said Mr Hall.

Any funding cuts would undermine farm business confidence and possibly lead to a shrinking of the sector, he warned.

Welsh demands

NFU Cymru says an increase in the annual agriculture budget in Wales to more than £500m – up from the current £340m – is needed just for farmers to account for inflation.

President Aled Jones said: “We need to see a multi-annual commitment from government so farmers can deliver on the three key issues of food security, climate, and the environment.” 

Chancellor Rachel Reeves will deliver the Labour government’s fiscal plans for the country, including UK agriculture, in her first Budget on Wednesday 30 October.

The UK government has not responded to a request from Farmers Weekly for comment.