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Last week, the Government published its consultation on a lump sum retirement scheme for farmers in England. But is the idea anything new, and will it achieve its aims? Abi Kay looks at historical schemes for clues.

The Tenant Farmers Association (TFA) has called for Natural England’s expanded budget to be used to help farmers join Defra’s new agri-environment scheme, Environmental Land Management.

There is no doubting that a lump sum of up to £100,000 will grab the attention of some of those in the latter stages of their farming careers.

Farming Minister Victoria Prentis has urged farmers to submit their claim to the Countryside Productivity Small Grant (CPSG) scheme before it closes at midnight on May 31.

Escalating business rates on anaerobic digestion (AD) operators threaten the UK’s ability to meet its net zero targets, according to industry leaders.

Irish farmers are rubbing their hands in glee at the market opportunities left open to them by the phase out of direct support and increased red tape for Great British exports to the EU, the FUW has said.

Irish farmers are ‘rubbing their hands in glee’ at the market opportunities left open to them by the phase out of direct support and increased red tape for Great British exports to the EU, the FUW has said.

Scottish farm businesses saw a 36 per cent drop in income in 2019/20, with farm chiefs saying the statistics highlighted the sector’s reliance on support.

The Foundation for Common Land (FCL) has highlighted ongoing concerns about the viability of upland farmers and commoners during the transition away from direct support in England.

MPs on the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee have called on the Government to act ‘urgently’ to support food suppliers to pubs and restaurants.