The effects of Brexit upon the UK remain relatively uncertain, however it’s guaranteed that the country’s farming industry will no longer receive EU subsides.

Debate

Like every industry, sheep farming must be profitable to survive, so without subsidies which accounted for 67% of a farmer’s income, how can this be possible?

The question was discussed at last week’s NSA Sheep Event with many believing that farm payments moving forward must target active sheep producers that reward progressive management decisions rather than being “pensions schemes” that are tied to their land.

Farmers Weekly reported on the event which began with a speech from farm minister George Eustice, who was in favour of the UK leaving the European Union. Moving forward he said that he wanted involvement from farmers in producing a coherent agricultural policy based on “first principles”.

First Principles

National Sheep Association chief executive Phil Stocker told Farmers Weekly that the policy should aim to hit three clear industry goal:

• Sheep enterprises should be in a viable position
• Remove reliance on a Basic Payment Scheme
• Reward payments for the environmental and social benefits sheep farming brings to the UK’s countryside

Mr Stocker told fwi.co.uk that this could be achieved by: “using Pillar two payments more broadly to reward farmers for improving their farm, flock and business, rather than simply paying farms for profit foregone or costs incurred.

“We would like to see recognition for the public benefits sheep farming brings to rural communities and landscapes while incentivising farmers to improve flock health. We know this will drive productivity and efficiency.”

Farmers

Farmers Weekly sought the view of two farmers and what they wanted to see following the UK’s break from the European Union.

John Yeomans, sheep and beef farmer:

“Ideally, I would rather have a good price week to week and do without subsidy. Policy and agri-environment schemes can now be simplified, but farmers need to be there at the beginning and talking as part of the process.”

James Gray, farmer and Tenant Farmers Association vice-chairman:

“We need help for young people who want to get into farming. We also need an outgoers scheme to help people after a lifetime in farming.”

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