Farming on Dartmoor — [Stewart Hosie in the Chair]

I support farmers in Dartmoor and express concern about the impact of changes to farm subsidies. I highlight issues around rural communities, including internet connectivity and health services. Mr Mangnall highlighted the urgent need for a debate on Dartmoor farming due to recent letters demanding livestock reduction from Natural England. He argued that farmers, who have been protecting the landscape and biodiversity for centuries, are now facing impossible decisions within two months of receiving these demands. He cited an example where one farmer was asked to reduce sheep by 75% and cattle by 66%, with no winter grazing allowed over five years. Mr Mangnall questioned Natural England's approach and called for an independent inquiry into the issue.

Daniel Zeichner highlighted the rich natural history of Dartmoor and its importance for conservation. He expressed concern over the deteriorating state of upland heathlands and peatland bogs, urging Natural England to take action. He also discussed the complex factors affecting moorland health, including grazing practices and pollution. Zeichner acknowledged farmers' concerns about proposed measures but advocated for alternative models that reward conservation efforts, such as payment-by-results systems.

Natural England is using excessive measures to declare Penwith moors as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, affecting up to 50 landowners and potentially rendering farms unviable. The notification lacks understanding of the land's productive use and management by local farmers, who are committed to protecting the environment.

Gary Streeter congratulated Sir Geoffrey Cox for securing the debate and highlighted the need for a collaborative approach among stakeholders on Dartmoor. He expressed concerns about Natural England's heavy-handed approach, which has caused alarm among farming communities. Streeter called for an independent process to address the situation and ensure trust is rebuilt between Natural England and farmers.

Discussed the need to secure financial viability for upland farming as we move away from area payment schemes. Called for adjustments in DEFRA's arm's length bodies post-EU, advocating for a coronation fund to support rare breeds like Greyface Dartmoor sheep.

I accept that the right hon. and learned Gentleman is focusing on Dartmoor, but he mentioned a human element. Part of that human element is family tenant farms—those who want to hand over their farms to their sons for the future. Surely, with this way forward, Natural England has a big job to do with farming families who have an obligation to their families and to their sons, who want to take over afterwards.

Pollard highlighted the complexity of farming on Dartmoor, citing tough economic conditions, regulatory challenges, and the need for a balanced approach between farmers, landowners, and visitors. He expressed concern over potential negative impacts from transitioning agricultural policies, such as fewer farmers, reduced payments, increased technology adoption, and diminished stewardship of the land. Pollard called for greater certainty in policy changes, sustainable practices, and effective regulation to support rare breeds and upland farming.

My right hon. and learned Friend is making an excellent speech. On the subject of that relationship and communication, does he agree that the damage has already been done on other moors? Exmoor farmers in my constituency are already contacting me with concerns about their future in the light of what has happened on Dartmoor.

Mr Farron highlighted the conflict arising around higher-level stewardship schemes on Dartmoor common, emphasising its impact on biodiversity, climate change, food production, flood prevention, tourism economy, landscape heritage, and local communities. He criticised Natural England for blaming farmers without taking responsibility itself and pointed out that staffing levels had been severely reduced by 90% over the past few years in the south-west. Mr Farron also mentioned a case of partnership working in Cumbria where 600 hectares of woodland pasture was ensured through a countryside stewardship agreement, advocating for co-operation to achieve public goods.