“Changes to this duty could have virtually doubled fuel costs for farmers and with no current alternative fuel for agricultural vehicles, this would have left farms immediately uncompetitive with many other countries who continue to provide lower fuel duty for their agricultural industries.
“This lower fuel duty on red diesel recognises its importance to farm businesses, their ability to produce food for the nation and the fact this machinery is mainly used off-road on farms.
“Many of these farm businesses have experienced the wettest winter in recent memory and thousands still find themselves underwater. We are really pleased to see the increase of £5.2 billion into flood defences, particularly the £120 million for the repair of damage caused by this winter’s storms. It’s crucial a significant chunk of this is spent on helping repair defences in rural areas.
“I would urge the government to recognise and reward farmland that is used to store floodwater. Any flood management policy needs to reward farmers for this vital public service.
“The weather this winter is yet another example of how farmers are on the forefront of climate change and the NFU has an ambitious goal for agriculture to reach net zero by 2040. We look forward to seeing more detail on the new £640 million nature for climate fund and what role is seen for farming and food production within this, alongside playing its role for the environment.
“The NFU called for an increase to the structure and buildings allowance in its Budget submission and this increase will deliver more effective tax relief for farm buildings. It will go some way to supporting farms investing in modern, efficient infrastructure which could help to improve productivity and deliver our net zero ambition.
“We have seen in recent times a significant increase in fly-tipping on farms. The NFU has been calling for the government to invest in new approaches to tackling this crime and the extra funding to tackle this blight on our countryside is welcome.
“Finally, we recognise the government’s commitments to helping small businesses with the impacts of the coronavirus. The commitment to cover statutory sick pay costs, providing business rates relief for many small businesses and mobilising banks lending for SMEs will help to provide resilience and support cash flow in these difficult circumstances.”