The Farmers Weekly Podcast

Welcome to this special episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast – the Farmers Weekly Question Time Event at the 2026 Association of Independent Crop Consultants Conference. Recorded in front of a live audience on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, farmers and other conference delegates quiz industry leaders on topical agricultural issues. Our panel is: Baroness Minette Batters, author of the Farming Profitability Review Andrew Blazey, AICC chairman and partner at Prime Agriculture Jenny Brunton, senior European policy advisor at the British Agriculture Bureau, Brussels Yorkshire farmer Paul Temple, of the Global Farmer Network. Oli Fletcher, is a Leicestershire farmer, historian and Farming Explained YouTuber Farmers Weekly Question Time is hosted by Farmers Weekly Podcast editor Johann Tasker. To attend or sponsor future Farmers Weekly Question Time events, visit fwi.co.uk/questiontime.

In this episode, failure to test illegal meat imports could leave livestock farmers exposed to animal disease, say food safety experts. Sheep producers face a government clampdown on tail docking and lamb castration – how you can have your say on animal welfare. And why farming needs better leaders: how a professional approach – and chartered status – could help recruit more people into agriculture. To have your say on lamb welfare, visit the Defra consultation on on proposed changes to castration and tail docking methods. The Society of Agriculture website is soc-ag.org. The white paper by Paul Harris about putting people first in farming can be downloaded from https://real-success.co.uk/white-paper-2/ (you will be asked to submit your email address). This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow Hugh (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, questions are raised over agriculture's Net Zero ambition after the NFU makes two climate change experts redundant. With cereal margins under pressure, can independent agronomists help make arable farming profitable again? Farm leader Tom Bradshaw faces a leadership challenge from NFU deputy president David Exwood: we preview next month's union elections. And we examine the prospects for the farmland market in 2026. A reminder that the deadline to enter the Women in Agriculture Awards is 30 January 2026. Join the Women in Agriculture Network by downloading the StayPost app for iOS or Android. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow Hugh (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Welcome to this special episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast – the Farmers Weekly Question Time Event at the 2026 Oxford Farming Conference. Recorded in front of a live audience on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, farmers and other conference delegates quiz industry leaders on topical agricultural issues. Our panel is: - Tom Bradshaw, NFU president - Henry Tufnell, Labour MP for Mid- and South Pembrokeshire - Kelly Hewson-Fisher, head of rural research, Savills - Peter Craven, head of agriculture, Natural England - Emma White, FairShare & The Felix Project This Farmers Weekly Question Time is sponsored by Savills. Farmers Weekly Question Time is hosted by Farmers Weekly Podcast editor Johann Tasker. To attend or sponsor future Farmers Weekly Question Time events, visit fwi.co.uk/questiontime.

Can the government really win back farmers' trust in 2026? Or is it a bridge too far? Defra secretary Emma Reynolds uses the Oxford Farming Conference to set out her vision for the relaunched Sustainable Farming Incentive. After the Treasury's partial climbdown on inheritance tax, should we continue campaigning for further concessions? And we take a look at the New Year Honours for farming. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow Hugh (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this special episode, we examine what the government's partial U-turn on inheritance tax means for your farm business. It follows the Treasury decision to water down plans to impose 20% inheritance tax on farm assets worth more than £1m. In a major concession the government has announced that it is increasing the threshold for inheritance tax on farm assets from £1m to £2.5m. We look at how the decision came about, what it means for family farms and where the sector goes from here. With special guests: NFU president Tom Bradshaw; Country Land & Business Association external affairs director Jonathan Roberts; and Sam Kirkham, partner at accountants Albert Goodman. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow Hugh (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, we get to grips with the long-awaited Farming Profitability Review and its 57 recommendations for government. Will it really make a difference? We've a special interview with review author Minette Batters. How you can forge a better future for your farm business – we preview the 2026 Oxford Farming Conference. And we meet Suffolk farmer Tom McVeigh, who is carving a niche for himself by growing hazelnuts – and looking for other farmers to join him. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow Hugh (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, is the government about to backtrack on plans to pay farmers for creating and improving wildlife habitats. We report from the frontline on the battle to save biodiversity net gain. A warning for arable growers looking to use two key fungicides together – how to avoid cross-resistance. Lamb war with France – what it means for UK sheep producers. And how Red Tractor plans to streamline assessments and ditch unnecessary farm inspections. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, experts voice concern at a get-out clause in government plans for a £500m Landscape Recovery scheme for farmers. We look at the opportunities for growers and livestock producers from Defra's Environmental Improvement Plan – and ask: is it fatally flawed? How much risk should you accept when chasing high yields? We get to grips with the new recommended list for cereals and oilseeds. African swine fever reaches Spain: we examine the impact on UK pig producers. And should we be more optimistic about agriculture? We speak to former NFU president Sir Peter Kendall and "Cheerful" Charlie Ireland, star of Clarkson's Farm. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast was recorded live on Thursday 4 December 2025 at the Ceres Rural Agri-Strategy Conference in Cambridgeshire. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, Metropolitan Police chiefs face questions after banning protesting farmers from bringing tractors to London. As the government makes a small concession on plans to impose inheritance tax on farmers, we examine what the Budget means for your farm business. Budget analysis by: Stuart Maggs, Howes Percival Sam Kirkham,. Albert Goodman Simon Gooderham, Cheffins And we pay a visit to the National Fruit show - where growers are determined to get more British apples and pears on more supermarket shelves. Neil MacLeod's Farmer Focus page is here. To donate to the Catherine MacLeod memorial fundraiser for Breast Cancer Now, please visit the Catherine MacLeod Justgiving page. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, Defra secretary Emma Reynolds reveals the government's latest thinking on relaunching the Sustainable Farming Incentive. Ms Reynolds was speaking during a Q&A session at the Country Land and Business Association annual conference in London. Farmers return to Westminster to protest against inheritance tax. Can we really expect any changes in this month's Budget? Food price inflation increases – but so too do farm input costs. And Tesco launches a £1.5m initiative to help 360 beef and sheep farmers baseline their environmental performance. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Just why is it taking so long for the UK government to set out its vision for farming? As Defra secretary Emma Reynolds prepares to give her first major speech to farmers, vital reports and strategies remain unpublished. The government says some will be published before Christmas - others later. We ask incoming CLA president Gavin Lane what Emma Reynolds needs to say when she addresses this month's Country Land and Business Association conference. We pay a visit to Agritechnica – Europe’s flagship farm machinery exhibition – to find out what's selling and what's not. And hundreds of well-wishers pay their respects at a memorial service for Norfolk farmer and commentator David Richardson. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, Defra is considering 57 recommendations after Minette Batters submits her long-awaited Farm Profitability Review. We take a look at some of main themes – including better collaboration between farmers and a closer relationship between industry and government. A cross-party group of MPs say urgent action is needed to improve agricultural productivity and avert the loss of UK farmland. And a major food processor explains why it is working to reward growers for adopting more sustainable farming methods. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this week’s podcast, some of Britain’s biggest supermarkets are refusing to engage with a review of UK farm assurance schemes. A progress report on improving schemes like Red Tractor has struggled to gather input from Britain's big retail chains. Just three supermarkets have responded on an individual basis with the British Retail Consortium (BRC) refusing to participate. Could a breakthrough by UK scientists mean the end of classical swine fever? And we find out why the world needs more red meat. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this week’s podcast, dairy farmers could launch legal action over back-dated milk price cuts. Can a partnership approach between industry leaders and the Scottish government aims to deliver a better future for farming? And we discover that urban youngsters often know much more about farming than we think they do. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, we examine the lessons to be learned after the UK advertising watchdog bans a TV ad for Red Tractor farm assurance. We look at the future for arable farming following Velcourt's decision to serve notice on 8,000ha of contract farming agreements. Are family farms better placed to ride out tough times? And is a last-minute extension for Mid Tier Countryside Stewardship a sticking plaster or a solution? This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Government ministers are said to be looking at easing plans to impose inheritance tax on farmers. Civil servants are reportedly looking again at increasing the proposed threshold which would exempt more farming families from the tax. Could the government be working harder to put more British food on British plates? Yes, says Alexia Robinson, the food campaigner behind British Food Fortnight. We take a special look at the fertiliser market and have all the latest commodity prices, in association with the Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board. And a bursary worth more than £27,000 to farm students opens for applications – thanks to the John Innes Foundation. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Farmers in England face significant cashflow shortfalls following further delays to the government's Sustainable Farming Incentive. The flagship scheme is not expected to reopen for applications until April 2026 at the earliest due to budget constraints and IT issues. Protesting farmers vent their frustration at the government's farming policies at the Labour party conference in Liverpool. We've a special update on milk prices as the UK dairy market takes a tumble – and examine the latest bluetongue restrictions in Wales. And we join hundreds of farmers to celebrate the best of British agriculture at the Farmers Weekly Awards in London. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this week’s podcast, we have a special interview with tenant farming commissioner Alan Laidlaw following his appointment. What does his new role mean for landlords and tenants? And how does he see a code of practice for the tenanted sector working in England? How artificial intelligence is helping livestock farmers increase productivity in a way that boosts income while benefiting the environment. And we visit the new Future of Food exhibition at the Science Museum in London. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

As growers rip up autumn cropping plans following another challenging season, we look at ways to get the best for your farm business. A new group of rural Labour MPs says it is backing British food producers – and launches its own action plan for the countryside. Will it make a difference? We look at the fallout after the Rural Payments Agency tries to reclaim Sustainable Farming Incentive funding from farmers. And how a new conference is helping more people carve a career in agriculture. Tickets are available for the AgriFuture Forum in London on Tuesday, 23 September. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, thousands of farmers face a cliff-edge when their countryside stewardship agreements expire – with nothing to replace them. Those with mid-tier schemes running out at the end of this year – just three months away – are left facing a stark choice: maintain beneficial environmental features at their own expense, or destroy them up and plant them with crops to earn some much-needed income. The dilemma could be resolved by a Defra announcement – but departmental delays mean the clock is ticking and time is running out. It's Back British Farming Day - what better timing for Defra Secretary Emma Reynolds to deliver her first speech as minister to farmers? We visit the Agroforestry Show – and a new beef-calf strategy is launched for milk producers. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, we look at what farmers can expect from new Defra secretary Emma Reynolds - her policies and personality. To discuss that and more, we’re joined by Jonathan Reynolds, director of external affairs at the Country Land and Business Association. The National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs says it has been told it will no longer receive a Defra grant – Defra says the suggestion is "false". Who is right? Shadow farm minister Robbie Moore gives us his thoughts. And sixth-formers at a Lincolnshire school can now study agriculture – we speak to their headteacher and find out all about the new course. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, farmers are helping firefighters battle a huge moorland blaze in Yorkshire. Farmers are using slurry tankers to deliver water to fire crews fighting flames which have engulfed thousands of acres of the Yorkshire Moors. Hot weather and lack of rain has seen hay and straw is imported into the UK from France to help drought-hit livestock farmers. Pollution from pig and poultry production is being targeted by wildlife campaigners – but do their claims add up? And we speak to the policeman who is reminding tractor drivers to stay safe on the road. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Harvest has been hugely variable this summer – with many growers in prime arable areas reporting terrible cereal yields. But has one crop bucked the trend? After years of decline and disappointment, oilseed rape is having a bit of a moment. Could it, perhaps, be crop of the year? Is £30/t an acceptable price for sugar beet? We find out. We’ve more on electronic tagging for cattle. Just what’s driving up food price inflation? And we pay tribute to farmer and veteran broadcaster David Richardson. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

A data error means the latest harvest progress report over-estimates yields – and triggers an investigation by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. Why wasn't the report right in the first place? Industry leaders give a mixed reaction to the latest inheritance tax proposals. And one of Britain's biggest livestock auctioneers voices concern at differences in electronic identification systems for cattle between England and Scotland. We also look at the latest drought situation and the impact of the government's refusal to bailout the UK's largest bioethanol plant. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch visits an Essex farm – meeting farmers to talk about inheritance tax. We’ve an exclusive interview. We meet the Yorkshire dairy farmer who is starting a renewable energy company – and powering up the local community. And we take an in-depth look at autumn weed control. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, Donald Trump leaves UK prime minister Keir Starmer in stony silence as he explains why American farmers don’t pay inheritance tax. But would British farmers really be better off if President Trump was in charge of UK agriculture? Is it time to get an electric farm pickup – we look at the latest fully electric truck as it goes on sale in the UK. Jeremy Clarkson’s farm goes down with bovine tuberculosis – and a Scottish beef producer leaves almost half a million pounds to a farming charity. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the future of regenerative agriculture and examine whether it is right for your farm. We have a special interview with American farmer Gabe Brown, described as the 'god father' of regenerative agriculture, as he visits the UK. We discuss the role of government support when it comes to agro-ecology and nature-friendly farming practices. And we look at plans for a not-for-profit National Agency for Smart Data in Agriculture (NASDA) to help farmers monetise their farm data safely and confidentially. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, former British Lion Tom Youngs shares his thoughts on farming and rugby. We run the rule on the government’s latest iteration of a national food strategy - and discuss the implications for farmers. NFU Cymru president Aled Jones voices concern about the newly announced Sustainable Farming Scheme for Wales. And we look at the ups and downs of harvest ahead of the market prices. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, as drought is declared in Yorkshire, we look at the impact of the dry weather across the country. Scotland faces a wildfire warning – following a 30,000 acre blaze which saw farmers and game-keepers come together to fight the flames. Tesco's new chief executive Ashwin Prasad gets out on farm – just a week into the job – saying he wants to work in partnership with farmers. Hugh has a problem getting replacement parts for his topper. And a Lincolnshire farmer establishes a 10ha olive grove near Spalding with big plans to produce high-quality virgin olive oil. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, a former Defra adviser says the government must win back farmers' trust if it is serious about successful agriculture. The government unveils £150m in capital grants for farmers – we look at what the money is likely to fund and how it will work. We find out about new funding opportunities for farmers – thanks to private investment from big corporations. We spend two days at Groundswell 2025, the regenerative agriculture festival, and look at the options for growers and livestock producers. And we speak to Emily Norton – the new chair of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development board – about her plans for farm levies. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, we preview the early start to harvest 2025 as the first combines roll into barley crops. One year after the Labour came to power, we ask why farm leaders have gone so quiet on government plans to impose inheritance on farmers. We visit a Fram Farmers trials day in Suffolk – and Hugh goes to his local Cowpie Country Fair. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, a former NFU combinable crops chairman sats the pace of change at Red Tractor is too slow to win back farmers' confidence. Cross-border bluetongue restrictions on livestock brought from England into Wales threaten to cause havoc, say farm leaders. We've the latest on muck spreading and Defra's Farming Rules For Water. And we visit the Royal Highland Show for a beefy announcement. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, UK farm leaders voice dismay after three major British supermarkets start selling beef from Australia, Uruguay and New Zealand. Is the government's spending review really better than expected when it comes to farming and the environment? We discuss the implications of departmental cuts at Defra – and the impact for growers and livestock producers. We spend two days at the Cereals event – the UK's annual showcase for the combinable crops sector. And we discover why plant breeders behind a 21-year-old oat variety are celebrating after being awarded a rare industry accolade. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Recorded live on Wednesday and Thursday 11-12 June 2025 at the UK Cereals event at Heath Farm, Leadenham, Lincolnshire. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, we look at the likely impact of the government's spending review on UK farming and the environment. We have a sneak preview of this month’s Cereals event – and why reducing carbon emissions isn't as easy as people might think. And why it is so important to get the farming message across on Open Farm Sunday. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, a UK farming couple quit the UK to go farming in France, saying they feel more valued by the French government. Defra declines to comment on reports that the government's Spending Review will slash the budget for nature friendly farming. We've the latest on high-profile movers and shakers in the farming sector, as Assured Food Standards appoints a permanent chairman for Red Tractor. And Madame Tussauds waxworks museum in London prepares to celebrate national sausage roll day. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, as senior civil servant Janet Hughes decides to leave Defra, we look at what it means for the Sustainable Farming Incentive. It's a revolving door at the AHDB, with the appointment of a new chair – and the announcement that chief executive Graham Wilkinson is moving on. Scottish livestock leaders say a climate committee report calling for less beef consumption is based on flawed evidence. Why a new deal between London and Brussels could make life easier on your farm. And Louise visits the Green Farm Collective – and discovers that bread made from regenerative wheat really does taste different. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, MPs say the government should delay plans to impose inheritance tax on farmers – and revise its controversial policy. Defra announces a partial reopening of the Sustainable Farming Incentive for growers and livestock producers in England. US agriculture secretary Brooke Rollins tells Farmers Weekly that poultry and pork are "on the table" to be next for a trade deal between the USA and the UK. And Hugh attends a Defra food strategy meeting. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode we look at the future of the Sustainable Farming Incentive agri-environment scheme. Natural England head of agriculture Peter Craven tells us the scheme will return – and be better for farming and the environment, albeit with a likely smaller budget. We assess the impact of the UK-US trade deal on the beef and arable sectors – and ask whether it is the shape of things to come? MPs debate the future for Britain's small abattoirs – which are often a lifeline for smaller livestock producers serving higher-value niche markets. And, as the silage season hots up, we talk to safety campaigner Jane Gurney about the latest trailer advice on the road and in the field. A wealth of safety advice and daily checks can be downloaded from the Tilly Pass website. Please download the Head to Tow app mentioned in this episode. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Record-breaking temperatures see crops sweltering in the spring sunshine. A worry or just another challenge for arable growers? UK former home secretary James Cleverly and Save British Farming campaigners say the government must take food security more seriously. As the UK commemorates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe and the end of World War Two, we ask, could we really see the return of rationing? A ground-breaking new farm tenancy agreement – how the Crown Estate and the Tenant Farmers Association are working together. And Rothamsted Research – the world’s oldest agricultural research station – announces a big restructuring and 90 redundancies. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

This episode of the Farmers Weekly Question Time Podcast examines a ground-breaking new farm tenancy agreement. Developed by the Crown Estate and the Tenant Farmers Association, the agreements are called Environmental Farm Business Tenancies (eFBTs). EFBTs are 15-year-long tenancy agreements which encourage tenant farmers to diversify in a way which benefits both the tenant and the landlord. The expert panel answering questions on this podcast episode are: Defra farm minister Daniel Zeichner MP George Dunn, chief executive of the Tenant Farmers Association Paul Sedgewick, managing director of Windsor and rural at the Crown Estate Kevin Kennedy, partner at law firm Burgess Salmon This Farmers Weekly Question Time session was recorded live at the Tenant Farmers Association conference on 1 May 2025 at Windsor Great Park. Farmers Weekly Question Time is hosted by Farmers Weekly Podcast editor Johann Tasker. To attend future Farmers Weekly Question Time events, visit fwi.co.uk/questiontime.

In this episode, one in three farmers fear their children will sink the farm business when it's handed on to the next generation. Why farming families are walking a tightrope between succession and inheritance tax. Dairy producers are forced to dump thousands of litres of milk after a breakdown at a key processing plant in Lancashire. We've all the latest commodity prices. And we find out why climate-friendly farmers are turned off by the quest for net zero. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, we get to grips government grants to fund on-farm innovation and technology to improve productivity. With British Beef Week around the corner (23-30 April), we run the rule over the NFU's 10-year vision for the UK's beef industry. We look at why farm hedges could be the latest victim of the government's decision to close the Sustainable Farming Incentive to new applications. And we find out why singing sweary farmers are all the rage in Oxfordshire. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, the government appoints former NFU president Minette Batters to lead a Defra review to solve farming's 'profitability problem'. Her appointment – by Defra secretary Steve Reed – aims to help growers and livestock producers increase their profit and financial resilience. We ask three experts what Baroness Batters should really be looking at – and whether farmers should be encouraged to diversify. Emily Norton, from Farm Foresight; Richard King, from Andersons farm business consultants; and Jonathan Armitage, from Strutt & Parker, share their thoughts. We get out in the field, where resistant wheat crops are showing signs of yellow rust - samples for analysis should be sent to the UK Cereal Pathogen Virulence Survey (UKCPVS). We look ways farmers can supply more local food - according to the Local Food Plan. And we try to track down a giant red fibre glass cow after it goes missing. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, livestock industry leaders warn of a devastating animal disease outbreak unless the government tightens border controls. MPs quiz. Defra minister Daniel Zeichner as cereal growers 'go on strike' in protest at government policies affecting UK farming. Will there really be no hot cross buns at Easter? We've the latest on the Sustainable Farming Incentive and how the Rural Payments Agency continues to process a backlog of applications. And one year after he took up the role, we've a special interview with Graham Wilkinson, chief executive of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. Plus all the latest commodity prices – and how Donald Trump's tariffs will affect UK agri-food products imported into the USA. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, the Red Tractor assurance scheme responds to criticism by pledging to make farm audits easier for farmers. We speak to the Red Tractor interim chairman Alistair Mackintosh and operations director Philippa Wiltshire. Also in this episode – the government unveils long awaited plans to reduce pesticide usage by 10% within five years. We look at the likely impact on your farm business – and on food production. And a medical microbiologist says farmers need to remain vigilant after the first case of bird flu is confirmed in a sheep in Yorkshire. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, farmers ramp up food production following the closure of the government's flagship environmental scheme. Arable growers who were preparing Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) applications are now drilling spring crops instead – with strong demand for spring seed and fertiliser. Natural England former head of agriculture Geoff Sansome says mistakes were made when drawing up the SFI – but the scheme should be refined rather than redesigned. Why Chancellor Rachel Reeves must avoid targeting red diesel when she unveils the government's Spring Statement. And how big food companies are investing in agriculture – and incentivising farmers to adopt more sustainable practices. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

Just why did the government close its flagship agri-environment scheme without warning? We examine the options for farmers unable to join Defra's Sustainable Farming Incentive. A new study says the government must take food security and sustainable farming much more seriously. Published by the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission, the report is called Paying the Price: Cheap food, big business and the cost to farming and food security. And we ask: Is there really a future for lab grown meat? This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this emergency episode, we examine the implications of Defra's decision to stop accepting applications for its flagship agri-environment scheme. The shock announcement to draw a line under the Sustainable Farming Incentive was announced at 6pm Tuesday, 11 March. Defra gave farmers no notice of the decision, which came into effect with immediate effect, leaving would-be applicants high and dry. We look at the reasons for the announcement – and where it leaves farmers and farm businesses across England. With thanks to special guests: Martin Lines, chairman of the Nature Friendly Farming Network Jamie Burrows, chairman of the NFU combinable crops board Ed Hutley, partner with farm business consultants Ceres Rural This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Contact or follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Contact or follow Louise (X): @louisearable Contact or follow (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.

In this episode, a growing number of 'rebel' Labour MPs are supporting farmers against the government on inheritance tax. We have an exclusive interview with Henry Tufnell, Labour MP for Mid- and South Pembrokeshire, who is calling for a government amnesty on the issue. A warm start to spring sees UK temperatures warmer than Madrid and Barcelona – and it's only the beginning of March. We find out how farmers are adapting to climate change - and get the low-down on the farmland market. The AHDB has published a special Climate Change Adaptation report. And a livestock mart in south-west England hits out at keyboard warriors after its Monday sale is cancelled. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Additional reporting by Phil Case. Follow Johann (X): @johanntasker Follow Louise (X): @louisearable Follow Hugh (X): @sondesplacefarm For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow @farmersweekly To contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast, email podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0.