From Manchester to No. 10
The new occupant of No. 10 is no stranger to Lancashire farmers. During his time as Mayor of Greater Manchester, NFU members welcomed him onto local farms to discuss the challenges facing agriculture. Those relationships have already reflected positively in government action.
Within his first month as Prime Minister, he joined the NFU on-farm, helping secure a drought support package that includes an additional £50 million for the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) in 2026, bringing the total budget to £290 million. The package also includes commitments on more flexible abstraction licences, simpler planning rules for water storage projects and continued support for on-farm reservoirs.
Meanwhile, Andy Burnham has continued to champion British food and farming, describing agriculture as part of the UK's "sovereign production and manufacturing capacity" and calling for greater use of British produce in the public sector. Whether funding matches ambition remains to be seen, with attention now turning to the October Budget.
Keep Britain Growing
Many farming businesses are nearing a financial tipping point. The worst drought in 50 years has led to poor harvests, crop failures and reduced grass growth, while rising fuel, fertiliser and energy costs continue to squeeze margins. For livestock farmers, the resurgence of bluetongue has added further pressure.
The NFU is calling on government to introduce interest-free "Keep Britain Growing" loans and a fallen stock scheme to help farmers manage the current cashflow crisis and safeguard future food production.
Bluetongue Battles
Bluetongue remains a fast-moving issue. England & Wales are now designated restricted zones, allowing animal movements within those areas without specific licences or pre-movement tests, provided General Licence EXD612(E) conditions are met. Different requirements apply for movements into Scotland.
Vaccination remains the best defence. Members are urged to speak to their vet and secure sufficient vaccine supplies, including booster doses where required. For updates, visit the NFU bluetongue webpages or contact NFU CallFirst on 0370 845 8458.
Get ready for SFI
The second SFI application window is expected to open around 22 September. Unlike Window 1, it will be available to all farm businesses with at least three hectares of land.
I encouraged you to watch the recent NFU webinar and review the guidance available through NFU Online to prepare your application.
Breakfast & Politics in Liverpool
The NFU will be attending the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool to keep farming firmly on the agenda. Members are invited to an NFU Breakfast Event from 8.00am to 10.00am on Monday 28 September at the Liver Building. To find out more, contact NFU North on 02476 939401.
Lancashire Harvest Ball
Tickets are still available for the NFU Lancashire Harvest Ball, sponsored by Dewhurst Agri, on Saturday 3 October at Ribby Hall Village near Blackpool. The event will raise funds for the North West Air Ambulance Service and includes a three-course dinner, auction, raffle and disco.
Tickets cost £45 per person or £430 for a table of 10. Donations for raffle and auction prizes are also welcome. To book or support the event, contact NFU North on 02476 939401 or email [email protected] . Alternatively you can book your ticket online.