The UK's Premier Agricultural Machinery and Technology Show

20–21 January 2027, NEC, Birmingham

Event Details

Farmers frustrated by Defra Secretary's comment to diversify in order to be profitable

Mr Reed said: "Food production will always be the primary purpose of the farming sector, but for all farm businesses, tenants, upland and others, to stay viable in an increasingly uncertain world and to make sure they can keep producing the food we all need, they must be able to profit from other activities"

Rachael Brown
Chief Reporter
clock • 4 min read
Farmers frustrated by Defra Secretary's comment to diversify in order to be profitable

Farmers have shared their frustration over Defra Secretary Steve Reed's comment that all farmers should diversify to manage risk across the food supply chain. Diversification Speaking to delegates...

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

Lib Dems attack 'shambolic SFI lottery' as party accuses Conservatives and Labour of leaving farmers 'high and dry'

Lib Dems attack 'shambolic SFI lottery' as party accuses Conservatives and Labour of leaving farmers 'high and dry'

Liberal Democrat Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokesperson Tim Farron said turning months of planning and work into a scramble was an 'insult' to the agriculture industry

Jane Thynne
clock 21 October 2026 • 3 min read
Newbury tractor protest calls for PM to 'put words into action' and axe the family farm tax

Newbury tractor protest calls for PM to 'put words into action' and axe the family farm tax

Over 100 tractors took part in the rally at Newbury Showground

Rachael Brown
clock 21 October 2026 • 3 min read
India trade visit reaffirms need to protect domestic market, says NFU

India trade visit reaffirms need to protect domestic market, says NFU

NFU president said exports were an important part of keeping the domestic market ‘honest'

Rachael Brown
clock 21 October 2026 • 4 min read