The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has responded to a recent survey conducted by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), which predicts a decrease in crop yields for the year 2024 as a result of excessive wet weather conditions. This survey has revealed concerning statistics regarding the anticipated crop reductions, including a 15% decrease in wheat production, a 28% decrease in oilseed rape cultivation, and a 22% decrease in winter barley acreage.
NFU president Tom Bradshaw expressed his concerns about the impact of the persistent wet weather on farms across the country, leading to significant challenges for farmers in planting their crops and maintaining productivity. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing water management practices to address such environmental challenges and prevent further setbacks within the agricultural sector.
In light of the survey findings, AHDB has also highlighted the need for increased wheat imports in the UK due to the diminished domestic crop yields. This anticipated increase in imports is expected to raise costs, with prices already starting to reflect this change. The condition of crops is a major focus for AHDB, as it could lead to a scarcity in straw availability, impacting various sectors within the agricultural industry.
Bradshaw further emphasized the vulnerability of British food producers in the face of high input costs, lower commodity prices, and reduced direct payments. He stressed the importance of supporting domestic food production through appropriate policy frameworks and investments to ensure resilience against market volatility and potential reliance on imports that may not meet British standards.
To address these challenges, the NFU’s election manifesto calls for increased funding for the Environment Agency to implement proactive water management and flood defenses. Additionally, it urges the next Government to commit to an agricultural budget that enables British farming to adapt to climate change, fulfill environmental commitments, and promote sustainable food production while striving for net-zero emissions.
