Farmers Weekly Podcast Ep 330: UK-EU farm deal and SFI rethink

Will closer links with Europe bring fresh opportunities for British growers and livestock producers – or new restrictions on UK farming?

This week, we examine the proposed UK-EU deal to ease checks on food and agricultural trade.

See also: UK promised EU pesticide ‘rights’ – but no vote

NFU president Tom Bradshaw explains why farming is the testbed for the wider relationship, while we consider the implications for precision breeding, crop protection and market access.

Should the Sustainable Farming Incentive be scrapped and rebuilt – or simply funded properly?

Lord Curry calls for a fresh approach to environmental stewardship, and we debate whether reform or greater investment offers the best way forward.

We also discuss the government’s renewed bovine TB strategy, why farmers need a voice on new water councils, and the latest livestock, grain and fuel prices.

And finally, Bishop of Norwich Graham Usher pledges to champion farmers in the House of Lords, as we consider long-term environmental funding and better access to rural healthcare.

This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is hosted by Johann Tasker, with Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker.

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