A transformative plan for post-Brexit agriculture has been unveiled, promising sweeping changes to England’s farming landscape.
- The government will phase out subsidies based on land ownership, replacing them with incentives for environmental and productivity improvements.
- Subsidies for direct payments under the EU policy will diminish, aiming to end by 2028, raising concerns for farm viability.
- Farmers exiting the industry will receive lump-sum payments, while new entrants are encouraged.
- Animal welfare will be prioritized with funds allocated for disease control and welfare improvements.
A new agricultural framework is being introduced in England, shifting away from the EU’s direct payment system towards rewarding farmers for enhancing productivity and environmental benefits. This shift marks the largest change in agricultural policy in the past fifty years, aiming to transform how farming operates in a post-Brexit landscape.
Under the current system, subsidies are allocated based on land ownership, a method soon to be replaced with a focus on achieving ‘public goods’. The policy transition foresees a reduction in current subsidies starting next year, with substantial changes expected by 2024 and an aim to phase out existing payments entirely by 2028.
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has expressed concern that rapid subsidy reduction could jeopardize farm viability, affecting domestic food production. In contrast, the government’s strategy aims for sustainable agricultural businesses that thrive independently of public subsidies by 2028. The funds currently allotted to farmers will be redirected towards environmental restoration projects, promoting natural beauty and ecological diversity.
Farmers intending to leave the industry will have access to ‘exit payments’ equivalent to future subsidies, conditional upon leaving farming entirely. This is expected to free up land for new farmers, assisted by the upcoming ‘new entrants support scheme’ to be open in 2022, facilitating the entry of aspiring agricultural professionals.
Animal welfare receives specific attention, with initial efforts targeting disease eradication in livestock such as cattle, pigs, and sheep. Further financial incentives will support measures to alleviate animal suffering, including better living conditions and reduced antibiotic use, aimed at mitigating antibiotic resistance. Pilot schemes and consultations are underway to refine these welfare enhancements, alongside a proposed welfare labeling system to inform consumer choices.
Significant investments are planned to promote environmental preservation and farm productivity. A new scheme intends to reward farmers for land management activities that contribute to cleaner air and water, thriving wildlife, and climate change mitigation. The government commits to increasing the proportion of funding dedicated to environmental and welfare improvements from 23% next year to 57% by 2024.
The policy outlines a competitive grant system for farmers investing in advanced technology and infrastructure, enhancing profitability and environmental protection. This system encourages engagement with scientific research to develop cutting-edge farming practices, contributing to the sustainable evolution of the agricultural sector.
The future of farming in England post-Brexit is set to be revolutionary, with emphasis on sustainability and innovation.
