Agricultural Policy News

Agricultural Policy

Farmers reminded of responsibilities around fertiliser storage, sales, and purchase

Agricultural Policy

The Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) and AIC Services, which manages the Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme (FIAS) is reminding farmers of their responsibilities to store fertiliser safely and securely, in light of the rising cost of nitrogen-based fertiliser and potential excess stock on farms.

As high global gas prices push up the cost of nitrogen-based fertilisers, some farmers are facing difficult decisions about crop feeding plans this winter and next spring. This is of particular concern where farmers don’t have sufficient stock or orders in the pipeline to cover their needs, since the disruption to the fertiliser supply chain could continue into spring 2022.

Another area of concern is the rising value of existing stocks of nitrogen-based fertilisers on farms which could lead to increased thefts.

There is a risk of nitrogen-based fertilisers being used for illegitimate purposes, and anyone handling or storing these products has a responsibility to provide secure storage and to remain vigilant to potential theft.

Farmers can make best use of their available stocks of fertiliser by seeking advice from a FACTS qualified adviser.

Incoming changes to use of red diesel from April 2022

Agricultural Policy

The UK Government has announced plans to introduce legislative changes through the Finance Bill 2021 to restrict the use of red diesel and rebated biofuels from April 2022 to help meet its climate change and clean air targets.

The use of red diesel will continue to be permitted for agriculture, horticulture, fish farming and forestry, including cutting verges and hedges, clearing snow and gritting roads. The full list of qualifying purposes can be found on the UK Government website here.

However, the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) has warned farmers who use equipment for non-agricultural work, including construction, not to be caught out by the new rules.

The NAAC is also seeking clarity on how to effectively remove all traces of red diesel from tanks and filters to ensure compliance. If a vehicle is taxed for agricultural use, there shouldn’t be a need to question whether it is fuelled with red or white diesel.

Given that the price of white diesel is around double the price of red, these changes will inevitably price those farmers who undertake non-agricultural work out of such markets.

'Listen to us. Support us.': the need to ensure access for young people to mental health support

Agricultural Policy

Rhun ap Iowerth is carrying out a survey to learn about the experience that people in Wales are having when it comes to talking about mental health.

All personal information will be kept confidential. The survey results will be shared with the Welsh Government to identify what young people need in terms of mental health support and to encourage an easier, more straightforward and simpler system to ensure people know where to find help and advice on mental health.

The survey can be completed here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSepBnWqKYiGc6tkSb4zTIEHTj4V6A0CEgrsMJIr3t7EX8YcPw/viewform

Expression of interest window dates December 2021

Agricultural Policy

Scheme	Summary	Window Close
Farming Connect What’s On	As a result of the pandemic, Farming Connect has taken the decision to postpone all open events and one-to-many events until further notice. They are conducting a number of activities digitally or over the phone where possible. More information can be found here: https://businesswales.gov.wales/farmingconnect/whats-on
Farming Connect ICT Programme	Farming Connect is now offering ICT training courses for beginners and intermediate learners. One-to-one sessions and online workshops are also available on integrating ICT technology into your farm business To book, please contact Lantra on 01982 552646 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Further information can be found here.
Farming Connect Training Application Window	The next Farming Connect training application window will open on Monday, 3rd January at 9.00am and close on Friday, 28th January 2022 at 17.00. All training courses subsidised by up to 80% for registered individuals More than 70 courses available, categorised under ‘Business’, ‘Land’ and ‘Livestock’ Network of approved training providers located throughout Wales For the full list of courses and/or support on how to apply, contact the Farming Connect Service Centre on 08456 000 813. The Farming Connect Training Booklet can be found here.	3rd January - 28th January 2022

FUW meets Plaid Cymru agricultural spokesman to discuss Labour-Plaid co-operation agreement

Agricultural Policy

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) met Plaid Cymru spokesperson on Rural Affairs and Agriculture Cefin Campbell MS to discuss details of the recently published Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru Co-operation Agreement.

It was announced on 22nd November that both parties, subject to support from party members, have agreed to work cooperatively for the next three years on 46 policies where there is a common interest including second homes, tree planting, agricultural pollution, the Welsh language and the Sustainable Farming Scheme.

There were clear distinctions between the aspirations of Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru in their manifestos in the spring, but given the current balance of votes in the Senedd, Labour was willing to negotiate on a range of issues.

The agreement states that a transition period will be introduced as the system of farm payments is reformed so stability payments will continue to be a feature of the Sustainable Farming Scheme during and beyond this Senedd term.

The FUW has consistently argued for the inclusion of stability payments that protect Wales’ family farms in any future scheme, therefore, the commitment is welcomed.