FUW report tackles barriers facing new farming entrants

A report which highlights significant barriers preventing young people from entering and thriving in farming has been revealed at the Royal Welsh Show, suggesting joint action between governments and industry is needed.

The Mandate for Future Farmers report by the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) cites an ageing workforce, prohibitively expensive land prices and growing competition for land from natural capital and carbon investors among some of the major problems.

The FUW makes specific recommendations on how the next generation of farmers can be supported and the problems overcome with the support of the Welsh and UK governments, as well as the wider farming community.

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“The future of Welsh agriculture, and indeed our ability to respond to wider challenges as a nation, hinges on our ability to support and empower the next generation,” said Teleri Fielden, FUW policy officer.

Mrs Fielden added that it was paramount that barriers are removed and genuine opportunities are created to ensure family farms continue to thrive for decades to come.

Hurdles

Limited and insecure tenancies are also identified as another significant hurdle.

The report highlights that the average length of term on new farm business tenancies remains just over three years, with 80% of all new farm tenancy agreements let for five years or less, hindering long-term investment.

In addition, the sale of county council farms has also reduced available land, with the area of council land in Wales falling by 25% (13,000ha) in the past decade.

Recommendations

To address the hurdles, the FUW makes almost 40 recommendations, including for the Welsh government to include an option for quarterly Sustainable Farming Scheme payments, prioritising new entrants and young farmers.

It also calls on the UK government to reconsider its controversial changes to agricultural property relief, advocating that farming and agricultural assets should not be taxed when passed between farming generations, but rather at the point of sale if a generation decides to sell.

For Welsh farmers concerned about the next generation, it also suggests considering share farming, offering contract farming opportunities, joint ventures, or mentoring.