Arable

In 2019, the AHDB GB Fight Against Blight programme received 229 reports of blight outbreaks across 68 varieties, compared to just 40 outbreaks in 2018.

In last week’s reshuffle, the Prime Minister appointed a new Farming Minister, Victoria Prentis. But what are her views on food and agriculture? Abi Kay explores.

High rainfall experienced throughout most of the UK this winter has left soils saturated and crops struggling.

Farmers are sharing images and videos of flooded land on social media after Storm Dennis battered the UK this weekend.

Gaining UK authorisation in December, the much-anticipated Revystar XE is available for use cereal in crops this season.

What to watch: Our old crop price level destiny, for now, is largely wrapped-up in the French/Russian export battle.

Farmers may look back on the 2019/20 grain season as one of the most buffeted by external events they can remember.

The government is planning a trade policy with as few tariffs as possible, but the farming industry warns that must not allow the import of products which could put British farmers out of business.

There is no doubt that the UK arable industry needs to scrutinise every opportunity available to it and indeed examine and lobby for steps which create new commercial opportunities.

Eustice’s appointment as Defra Secretary seemed to be a popular one among farmers, but this just shows they haven’t been paying attention, says Hywel Davies, who is a partner at Cyfreithwyr Llys Cennen Solicitors and helps his parents run the Aman flock of pedigree Texel sheep, the 2018 Champion Flock of Wales.