Farmers demand clarity as fears grow that ELM budget could be cut at the next Spending Review

NFU president Tom Bradshaw said the farming organisation was seeking urgent clarity from Defra after leaks from Government have revealed that Chancellor Rachel Reeves could make cuts to the nature-friendly farming budget at the Spending Review

Chris Brayford
clock • 7 min read
NFU president Tom Bradshaw: "Farming is resilient and innovative but if promises from Government that farmers would be partners in doing environmental good have been reneged on, it will leave farmers prioritising economic returns and balancing tough choices between farming the land as hard as they can just to make a living and continuing to focus on environmental works they have been proud to deliver."
Image:

NFU president Tom Bradshaw: "Farming is resilient and innovative but if promises from Government that farmers would be partners in doing environmental good have been reneged on, it will leave farmers prioritising economic returns and balancing tough choices between farming the land as hard as they can just to make a living and continuing to focus on environmental works they have been proud to deliver."

Farmers have warned cuts to the budget for Environmental Land Management Schemes (ELMs) will mean the Government is effectively 'giving up' on its own environmental targets. NFU president Tom Bradshaw...

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

 

BNG Habitat Bank Creation & Unit Sales

BNG Habitat Bank Creation & Unit Sales

VIEW ADVERT
£POA

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

VIEW ADVERT
£POA

WATER ABSTRACTION LICENCES FOR SALE

WATER ABSTRACTION LICENCES FOR SALE

VIEW ADVERT
£POA

More on Environment

Trailblazing Cumbrian river project shows what collaboration can achieve

Trailblazing Cumbrian river project shows what collaboration can achieve

Following increasing incidents of flooding and a lack of action around watercourse management, a group of Cumbrian farmers set out to create a blueprint for others to follow

Alex Black
clock 10 October 2025 • 7 min read
Farm groups 'disappointed' as Welsh Gov announces protection for European beavers

Farm groups 'disappointed' as Welsh Gov announces protection for European beavers

The Farmers' Union of Wales said Welsh Government had failed to address its concerns

Alex Black
clock 07 October 2025 • 2 min read
New report reveals major shift in growers' sustainability credentials

New report reveals major shift in growers' sustainability credentials

First ever British Berry Growers sustainability study shows commitment to reduction in water and energy use

clock 30 September 2025 • 2 min read