When meeting anyone interested in the agriculture sector be that MPs, councillors or the public I am always quick to point out that farming is an adaptable and innovative industry that often manages to turn challenges into opportunities. Now, with the conflict in the middle east farmers are facing rising costs in energy, fuel and fertiliser those adaptation and innovation skills are being tested. in addition to those presented by government and the weather.
Your NFU will continue to lobby government following the announcement that the BICS (British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme) 25% discount in electricity bills is being expanded to 10,000 manufacturers but the agricultural sector has been excluded. Many sectors are energy intensive the NFU is asking the government to urgently review the eligibility criteria for the BICS and the increases to standing charges because of the impacts on the food and farming industry.
You can keep up to date with developments and how the NFU continues to support members please do watch the President’s Vlog and follow the updates at NFUOnline.
Supporting you through activism
Farm activism continues to be a concern for some businesses across North Riding and Durham with incidents ranging from trespass and disruption to the sharing of misleading footage online. While the scale and frequency varies across the county, the message remains the same — preparation, calm responses and strong support networks are key.
Get the NFU's latest advice to help you deal with incidents you might have involving activists – whether that's on farm or online. Here you'll find helpful, reassuring steps to follow, from reducing the risk of protests to reporting incidents of harassment to the police.
Durham County Council Farming and Rural Group
County Chair Clare Wise and I attended the second meeting of this newly formed group, where we learned that the northeast combined authority (NECA) have made funding available to develop a programme for rural SMEs, farming, agri-tech and food-and-drink enterprises. The programme is expected to fund a specialist Farm Advisory Service and Agritech Adoption Pilot providing funding for technology adoption. More details will be communicated but everyone agreed that farmers in County Durham need to have equal support in accessing funding.
York and North Yorkshire Strategy for a sustainable future
Y&NY Combined Authority is halfway through the consultation period on its draft Strategy for a Sustainable Future. The Strategy, formerly known as the Routemap to Carbon Negative, is an opportunity for the region to be the first in England to achieve carbon negative, and aims to achieve an enhanced environment, energy independence, and a move towards a growing, greener economy. The consultation is open to businesses and the public to have your say follow the link: https://bit.ly/4smGEoS
Save the Date
NFU Council Delegate William Maughan is kindly hosting a summer social and farm walk on the 2 July 2026. More details will be published nearer the date but we are delighted that NFU President Tom Bradshaw will be attending and is keen to talk to grass roots members.