As part of the New Deal for Farmers, Defra is claiming arable farmers will benefit from new rules to protect them from unfair practices in the combinable crops supply chain.
Defra says the review is a major step towards ensuring producers have clear, fair, and enforceable contracts – covering pricing, supply volumes, data, and dispute resolution.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed said: “British growers work incredibly hard to produce world-class food, and deserve fair, transparent contracts that reflect that.
“This review is a major step forward in giving arable farmers a stronger voice, better protection and fairer returns for the food they produce.
“We’re proud of the vital work farmers undertake every day to feed our nation, which is why we’re investing £5 billion – the largest ever budget for sustainable farming.”
Mr Reed pointed out that the Government has already taken decisive action to secure a fairer deal for farmers. This includes slashing costs and red tape for businesses who export to and import from the EU, making supply chains more resilient and helping reduce costs for consumers, and backing British food with investment and action – aiming for at least 50% of food supplied in public sector contracts to come from local producers or those certified to higher environmental standards.
Defra has appointed former NFU president Baroness Minette Batters to lead reforms. A formal public consultation will be launched, giving farmers and other stakeholders the chance to share their experiences.
