James Cleverly - Conservative Party leadership candidate: "The primary function of farming is food production, we must never forget that"

"More extreme weather will make farming more challenging, so we must continue to support our farmers to produce enough food whilst also rewarding sustainable practices which ensure we reduce emissions"

Chris Brayford
clock • 2 min read
Mr Cleverly told the Conservative Rural Forum how he planned to support farmers and rural communities if he is elected as the next Conservative Party leader.
Image:

Mr Cleverly told the Conservative Rural Forum how he planned to support farmers and rural communities if he is elected as the next Conservative Party leader.

My default position is that our agricultural land should be used for exactly that. We have been incredibly successful at offshore wind and must do more to support rooftop solar so that we are using...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Politics

NFU Conference: Who is standing for election?

NFU Conference: Who is standing for election?

The NFU's national officeholder elections take place after NFU Conference on February 25

Alex Black
clock 23 February 2026 • 4 min read
NFU writes to Chancellor ahead of Spring Forecast

NFU writes to Chancellor ahead of Spring Forecast

The Union has asked the Chancellor for measures to increase investment and productivity in the farming sector

clock 23 February 2026 • 2 min read
Nature Friendly Farming Network unveils its key asks ahead of Welsh and Scottish elections

Nature Friendly Farming Network unveils its key asks ahead of Welsh and Scottish elections

Farmer-led body says greater consideration for sustainble farming is the only way to safeguard the future of the industry and its members

clock 20 February 2026 • 2 min read