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
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

Iran War: Tenants caught in crossfire of Middle East conflict

Iran War: Tenants caught in crossfire of Middle East conflict

TFA farm policy adviser Lynette Steel writes on how the Iran conflict is squeezing tenant farmers in the UK

Chris Brayford
clock 15 May 2026 • 3 min read
What do Starmer's would-be successors offer farming?

What do Starmer's would-be successors offer farming?

As the pressure mounts on the Prime Minister, Farmers Guardian looks at the rural credentials of his main oppostion

clock 15 May 2026 • 3 min read
OPINION: Starmer's inevitable demise brings more Westminster chaos to British Farming

OPINION: Starmer's inevitable demise brings more Westminster chaos to British Farming

When will farmers have clarity from a stable Government which backs, rather than hinders, British farming?

Chris Brayford
clock 15 May 2026 • 4 min read