On British Farming Day, Food and Farming Secretary Thérèse Coffey unveils measures to support British farmers and encourage consumers to choose locally sourced products
Thérèse Coffey reinforces the commitment to produce 60% of the UK’s food and backs industry-led efforts to promote “buy British” online. This initiative aims to boost the £127 billion British food and farming sector, emphasising the quality of home-grown meat and dairy products.
Support for sustainable farming on British farming day
Farmers engaged in sustainable British food production under environmental land management schemes can use them to meet public procurement standards. This move benefits both British farmers and the public sector, ensuring the availability of high-quality British food.
The government recruits five additional agri-food attaches to open new trading markets, further boosting the UK’s £24 billion food and drink exports, contributing to the British economy.
Thérèse Coffey emphasises the government’s unwavering support for British farmers, recognising their contribution to the economy and the environment. The government’s flexible farming schemes, including the Sustainable Farming Incentive 2023, aim to create a sustainable food and farming sector.
How the UK government supports the supply chain
The government plans to ease burdens on small abattoirs to facilitate their operations and enable farmers to reach local and international markets. A £4 million Small Abattoir Fund will enhance productivity and animal welfare while encouraging technological investments.
Furthermore, the government is increasing fairness in the supply chain, with new regulations for the dairy and pig sectors in the pipeline and consultations on eggs and horticulture supply chains.
Investing in innovation and automation for farmers
The government allocates £30 million to support farmers adopting automated, robotic, and solar technologies. This investment will help reduce fossil fuel usage, enhance energy resilience, and accelerate progress towards a net-zero future, benefiting farmers and the environment.
