Support for Farmers 2024-03-14
2024-03-14
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Farmers face financial and logistical challenges in the sustainable farming incentive programme.
British farmers are facing concerns about the sustainable farming incentive, particularly regarding upfront payments. A farmer in North Shropshire installed a stone track to prevent soil from washing onto roads but faced payment delays from DEFRA. He had to repay the money and is now considering removing the track. Will the Secretary of State help with this case and improve payment processes?
I am happy to look at any individual case raised by the hon. Lady. I agree that payment processes need improvement, and we are working with the Rural Payments Agency to build a more trusting relationship to expedite payments.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment on resolving the farmer's issue or changes in policy timelines
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The aquaculture industry needs support to create new businesses and sustain coastal communities.
Fishermen contribute significantly to the economy as farmers of the sea. What steps is the Secretary of State taking to further support the aquaculture industry, especially in creating new businesses within our coastal communities?
I have been engaged with discussions on medical exemptions for boats under 10 metres and issues around pollack. I am willing to provide updates on a series of other initiatives as we progress.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures or timelines for supporting new aquaculture businesses
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Farmers are uncertain about future plans and government support.
Has the Secretary of State recently spoken to the National Farmers Union? The farmers feel stuck without a clear plan under this administration. What is his strategy for addressing their concerns?
I have met with the new president of the NFU, been on his farm, and had meetings with other key figures. My engagement is ongoing.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific action plan or timeline for addressing farmers' concerns
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Farmers are limited by current planning rules in diversifying their income through activities like opening a farm shop.
Visiting Church Farm in Weston Turville, the family highlighted the importance of diversifying income to ensure food security. Current planning rules restrict such activities. Will my right hon. Friend update on discussions with Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to ease these restrictions?
My focus is ensuring food production viability, but I am in advanced discussions with the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on extending permitted development rights.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific progress or timelines regarding diversification permissions
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
Farmers need protection from diseases like African swine fever, but DEFRA funding cuts and border check changes may compromise this security.
Farmers require support against diseases such as African swine fever. The Port Health Authority in Dover has been seizing contaminated meat regularly. However, next month, DEFRA will cut its funding by 70%, moving checks inland. Why are the Conservatives risking farmers and national security?
I met with the chief veterinary officer yesterday to discuss bluetongue disease, a future risk. I am actively involved in discussions and planning roundtables next week.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific actions to mitigate risks from reduced funding for border checks
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
Farmers face logistical issues in the sustainable farming incentive programme, with delays and financial impacts due to payment timing.
Farmers have concerns about upfront payments required under the sustainable farming incentive programme. A specific case involves a farmer who installed a stone track but faced payment delays from DEFRA. He had to repay money he previously paid out and is considering removing the track. Will the Secretary of State help with this issue?
I am happy to look at any individual case raised by the hon. Lady. I agree that payment processes need improvement, and we are working with the Rural Payments Agency to build a more trusting relationship to expedite payments.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures or timelines for resolving this farmer's issue
Response accuracy