Agricultural Policy News

Agricultural Policy

Lack of consideration for tenants and new entrants under SFS proposals is concerning, says FUW Presidential Policy Team

Agricultural Policy

The lack of consideration of tenant farmers and proper support for new entrants were just some of the key concerns expressed by the Presidential Policy Team of the Farmers’ Union of Wales during a meeting held recently at Builth Wells.

This was the final formal meeting held by the FUW to discuss the initial feedback received from over 1,500 farmers at local county meetings across Wales in recent weeks. It will be used to formulate the Union’s final response to the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) consultation.

News In Brief March 2024

Agricultural Policy

Welsh Sheep exports rise in 2023

New HMRC data shows that sheep exports have continued to rise in 2023. The total volume of sheep meat exported from Wales is estimated to have reached almost 30,500 tonnes, 12% up on the year, while total value hit £190.9 million, 10% up on the year.

Agri Academy open for applications

Agricultural Policy

The application window for Agri Academy 2024 is now open. The Agri Academy provides a programme of training, mentoring, support and guidance over 3 intense residential sessions and virtual supplementary sessions.

There are 2 separate Academies:

Dissertation survey

Agricultural Policy

A student at Aberystwyth University is currently undertaking a dissertation on 'A study showing the survivability of Welsh farms with or without subsidy payments from the government and the possible effects of upcoming changes in the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS)’.

The student has created a questionnaire for farmers within the UK and is hoping for as many replies as possible.

Red Meat Levy to increase by 4.2%

Agricultural Policy

Hybu Cig Cymru have announced a 4.2% increase in the red meat levy paid by producers and abattoirs in Wales from April 2024. The Welsh Red Meat Levy rates were increased in April 2023 and a mechanism was introduced to link future levy increases to the Consumer Prices Index including owner occupiers' housing costs (CPIH).