Help shape the Tenant Farming Commissioner's work

10 February 2026

Alan Laidlaw and David Exwood

Tenant Farming Commissioner Alan Laidlaw with NFU Deputy President David Exwood at the NFU's Tenant Farmers' Conference. Photograph: Exposure Photography

What do you know about the role of the Tenant Farming Commissioner and how familiar are you with the landlord-tenant code of practice? Take the Commissioner, Alan Laidlaw's, survey to help shape his work across the tenanted sector. 

The NFU was the first to welcome the new Tenant Farming Commissioner into his role during a visit to Deputy President David Exwood's farm last year. 

This independent role was a key recommendation within the Rock Review and will be crucial for improving fairness and collaboration across the agricultural tenancy sector.

The role, which is set to champion tenant farmers and promote stronger relationships in the sector, has been established to promote the standards set out in the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Code of Practice.

Mr Laidlaw is now seeking feedback to help build a clearer picture of the views, experiences and needs across the sector.

Take the survey

I would encourage all tenant farmer members to complete the survey which will help the Commissioner assess the understanding of this new role and how they can engage with him.”

NFU Deputy President David Exwood

Engaging with the Commissioner

NFU Deputy President David Exwood said: “The NFU said when Commissioner Laidlaw was appointed that getting the views of tenant farmers across the country must be a priority, so I am pleased this survey has been launched to see whether tenants, landlords and agents understand who the Commissioner is, what the role covers along with questions on the understanding of the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Code of Practice for England.

“I would encourage all tenant farmer members to complete the survey which will help the Commissioner assess the understanding of this new role and how they can engage with him.”

David met again with Mr Laidlaw last week, where he outlined some of the issues tenant farmers are experiencing. 

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