The Farmers Weekly Podcast

Sheep farmers are being urged to consider vaccination as a surge in bluetongue cases causes serious losses across south-west England. We have the latest on the worsening outbreak, the risks associated with livestock movements and whether vaccination makes financial sense. We also examine the impact of extreme heat and drought on this year’s harvest. Soil scientist Danni Robb explains why high temperatures can damage grain yields, how warmer nights affect crops and what growers can do to improve resilience. Plus, we discuss forage shortages, chickpea prices, straw and wool insulation, and the latest farm commodity prices. And Louise visits the winner of the 2026 Silver Lapwing Award – and sees how farming goes hand-in-hand with outstanding environmental management in Gloucestershire. This episode is brought to you by crop protection specialists Certis Belchim. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 00:57 – Surge in bluetongue cases hits sheep farms 01:19 – Philippa Page and Phil Stocker assess the outbreak 03:03 – Should farmers vaccinate before tupping? 04:55 – Hugh Broom on sheep losses in south-west England 07:48 – Certis Belchim message: managing take-all in cereal crops 09:29 – Heat, drought and poor harvest yields 11:06 – How warm nights affect wheat yields 12:16 – Which crops have performed better? 13:28 – Varieties, soil health and climate resilience 24:11 – Podcast updates and listener feedback 25:40 – Chickpea prices and imported competition 27:03 – Warning over adding moisture to stored grain 27:38 – The environmental impact of free-range eggs 31:09 – Hugh tries British wool insulation 33:06 – This week’s farm commodity prices 35:24 – Frampton Court Estate wins the Silver Lapwing Award 36:05 – Peter Clifford on agroforestry and farm partnerships 37:35 – Funding environmental work in the future 42:07 – Closing remarks Guests * Philippa Page, president, Sheep Veterinary Society * Phil Stocker, chief executive, National Sheep Association * Dani Robb, soil scientist, Ceres Research * Peter Clifford, Frampton Court Estate Useful links * Bluetongue guidance * Bluetongue vaccination guidance * National Sheep Association * Sheep Veterinary Society * British Society of Soil Science * Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group * Silver Lapwing Award * Frampton Court Estate This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. To get in touch with the Farmers Weekly Podcast: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. 

What does Dame Angela Eagle’s appointment as Defra secretary mean for UK agriculture? This week, we examine the new secretary of state’s priorities, political influence and ability to secure the long-term budgets farmers say they need. We also hear from NFU Sugar chairman Kit Papworth following British Sugar’s proposal to stop processing beet at its Cantley factory in Norfolk. At the Royal Welsh Show, farmers respond to a three-year, £340m-a-year funding settlement for the Sustainable Farming Scheme. We pay tribute to NFU livestock board chairman David Barton, hear how the drought is affecting harvest and examine rising farmgate prices. And during Farm Safety Week, combine fire survivor Andrew Williamson explains why machinery can be replaced—but people cannot. This episode is brought to you by seed breeder KWS. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 00:51 – What will Angela Eagle mean for farming? 05:58 – A farmer-friendly appointment at Defra? 07:37 – Cantley sugar factory faces closure 12:30 – Can Britain rebuild its rural economy? 18:21 – Imported cane sugar versus home-grown beet 23:09 – Welsh farmers receive funding certainty 27:48 – Has Wales found a better approach? 33:45 – Remembering David Barton 36:41 – Harvest and drought update 38:52 – Abby’s new investigative role 40:03 – Farm markets 42:38 – Combine fires and Farm Safety Week 46:02 – Why farm safety is not improving Special Guests: Dame Angela Eagle – secretary of state for environment, food and rural affairs Kit Papworth – Norfolk sugar beet grower and chairman of the NFU Sugar Board Andrew Williamson – farmer and vice-chairman of the NFU Combinable Crops Board The episode is presented by Johann Tasker, Abi Kay, Hugh Broom and Anne Dunn. Useful links ⁠British Sugar’s announcement on the proposed Cantley closure ⁠NFU Sugar: Growers need certainty following Cantley proposal ⁠Welsh Government: £1bn multi-year funding commitment ⁠NFU Cymru response to the funding settlement ⁠Farm Safety Foundation – Yellow Wellies ⁠Farm Safety Week 2026 ⁠Farmers Weekly: Level the Field – physical health in farming ⁠KWS UK Email the podcast team at podcast@fwi.co.uk. Listeners in the UK can text FARM, followed by their message, to 88440.

What does an Andy Burnham government mean for UK agriculture? This week, Westminster watcher Jeremy Moody examines the new prime minister’s farming credentials – and whether a land value tax could hit agricultural businesses. We also examine the law on defending yourself and your property after prosecutors decide that a Derbyshire farmer who fatally shot an intruder will face no criminal charges. Agricultural solicitor Aled Owen explains when force may be considered necessary and reasonable—and why picking up a firearm should always be a last resort. Elsewhere, we bring you the latest harvest results, advice on handling exceptionally dry oilseed rape, this week’s livestock and arable prices, and an unusual field fire started by a buzzard. And finally, could chickpeas become a profitable, climate-resilient break crop for UK growers? Louise Impey visits field-scale trials in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk to find out. This episode is brought to you by plant breeder KWS. Special Guests Jeremy Moody – secretary and adviser, Central Association of Agricultural Valuers Matt Bull – product manager, KWS Aled Owen – agricultural solicitor and partner, HCR Law David White – Cambridgeshire arable farmer and chickpea trial grower Josiah Meldrum – Hodmedod’s Wholefoods Chapters 00:55 What does an Andy Burnham government mean for agriculture? 04:51 Could farmers face a land value tax? 08:45 Will rural Britain be heard? 11:47 Farmers Weekly Harvest Update with KWS 15:15 Farmer faces no charges over fatal shooting 15:52 What does the law allow householders to do? 19:44 Advice for farmers facing an intruder 26:10 Harvest results: wheat, barley, beans and oilseed rape 28:02 Adding moisture to very dry oilseed rape 29:23 Buzzard blamed for standing-crop fire 30:48 Church rejects blanket rewilding target 31:41 Environment Agency farm inspection findings 33:04 Should rural speed limits fall to 20mph? 35:31 Market update 38:11 Could chickpeas become a UK break crop? 45:18 Closing remarks Useful links ⁠Farmers Weekly ⁠Central Association of Agricultural Valuers ⁠HCR Law agricultural regulatory team ⁠Crown Prosecution Service guidance on self-defence and crime prevention ⁠AHDB grain-storage moisture targets United Oilseeds ⁠NIAB: UK chickpea production research ⁠Hodmedod’s Farmers Weekly market prices This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is hosted by Johann Tasker with Abi Kay, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. To get in touch with the Farmers Weekly Podcast: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Abi: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/abi-kay-38927130 Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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 third summer heatwave is creating difficult harvesting conditions, with shrivelled grain, variable cereal yields and combines being forced to operate early in the morning or late at night. We examine warnings against “grain washing” - adding water to very dry harvested grain before it goes into store - and consider the risks of hot spots, mould and contamination. Elsewhere, MPs challenge Defra over whether its new 25-year farming roadmap contains enough detail, investment and ambition to improve profitability and food security. And finally, Norwegian football star Erling Haaland explains why he buys raw milk, beef and honey from a Cheshire farm. This episode is brought to you by crop protection specialists Certis Belchim. Special Guests: * Amy Caitlin, AHDB Cereals and Oilseeds team * Alistair Carmichael MP, Efra committee chairman * Emma Reynolds MP, Defra secretary * Erling Haaland, Manchester City and Norway footballer * Helen Southworth, Cheshire dairy farmer, Greenoaks Farm Chapters 00:59 Heatwave harvest challenges 01:27 Warning over grain washing 02:34 Early harvest results 04:09 Should growers add moisture? 07:17 Silage and maize conditions 09:47 Partner message: Certis Belchim 11:29 Is Defra’s farming roadmap credible? 11:54 Emma Reynolds challenged by MPs 13:28 Alistair Carmichael interview 23:32 Farming sentiment in Scotland 29:07 Harvest disrupts farm plans 30:14 Markets update 32:07 Erling Haaland backs British farm produce 33:39 The Haaland effect 36:52 England versus Norway 37:38 Closing remarks Useful links Farmers Weekly Podcast AHDB grain storage guide AHDB grain-cooling guidance Farming Roadmap 2050: Growing England’s Future Defra Farming Roadmap summary Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee Food Standards Agency: raw drinking milk This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. To get in touch with the Farmers Weekly Podcast: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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 week’s Farmers Weekly Podcast comes from the Groundswell show in Hertfordshire, where Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch tells farmers she wants their ideas for a new rural policy. Speaking to Farmers Weekly, Ms Badenoch says future policy should be shaped by farmers and land managers – not just by officials in Westminster and Whitehall. We also examine whether private finance can help pay for greener farming, as Lloyds Bank launches the Food and Nature Resilience Fund with Wildfarmed, Severn Trent Water, Affinity Water and AXA. Plus, Farmers Weekly editor Andrew Meredith joins Hugh Broom and Louise Impey to discuss Defra, countryside stewardship higher tier, harvest progress, private finance and the mood at Groundswell. And finally, we hear from Groundswell co-founder Alex Cherry as the UK’s leading regenerative farming event marks its 10th anniversary. This episode is brought to you by Certis Belchim – crop protection specialists. Special Guests: * Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party * Ben Makowiecki, agriculture sustainability director, Lloyds Bank * Alex Cherry, co-founder, Groundswell * Andrew Meredith, editor, Farmers Weekly Chapters 00:00 – Episode introduction from Groundswell 01:03 – Hugh Broom opens the show 01:22 – Kemi Badenoch visits Groundswell 09:07 – Andrew Meredith joins the discussion 11:47 – Countryside stewardship higher tier changes 16:37 – Lloyds Bank launches Food and Nature Resilience Fund 17:06 – Ben Makowiecki explains private finance for regen farming 23:49 – Can private money really support farmers? 27:10 – Harvest report 29:23 – Donald Trump and regenerative farming 30:31 – Contaminated meat and World Cup anti-doping tests 31:47 – Off-grid living, guinea pigs and pigeon meat 32:42 – Sir Peter Kendall calls for more farming optimism 34:23 – Markets: beef, sheep, pigs, cereals and diesel 36:33 – Groundswell marks its 10th anniversary 42:31 – Final reflections from the show Useful links Farmers Weekly Groundswell Conservative Party Lloyds Bank Agriculture Wildfarmed Soil Association Exchange Woodland Trust Defra This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Hugh Broom. We love to hear from you: - Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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 week, we examine whether the government’s long-awaited 25-year Farming Roadmap will deliver the certainty, confidence and investment farmers need. NFU president Tom Bradshaw gives his reaction to Defra’s plan, while we discuss profitability, agri-environment funding, climate resilience and the value of farming to the wider economy. We debate the impact of hot weather and this month's record-breaking temperatures on farm enterprises. We also examine Defra’s refreshed bovine TB strategy, including new testing approaches and the prospect of cattle vaccination by 2030. With the UK marking 10 years since the Brexit referendum, Cheffins chairman Bill King explains how leaving the EU has changed the trade in second-hand farm machinery. And we visit Courteenhall Estate in Northamptonshire, winner of a King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development. This episode is brought to you by Certis Belchim – crop protection specialists. Special Guests. * Tom Bradshaw, president, NFU * Paul Tompkins, deputy president, NFU * Josh Swain, farm animal vet, Synergy Animal Health * Bill King, chairman, Cheffins * Dr Johnny Wake, managing partner, Courteenhall Estate Chapters 00:00 Intro and headlines 01:13 Defra unveils 25-year farming roadmap 01:45 Tom Bradshaw on whether the roadmap goes far enough 05:42 Louise and Hugh analyse the plan 12:09 Certis Belchim partner message: managing take-all risk 13:48 Defra refreshes bovine TB eradication strategy 14:59 Josh Swain explains new TB testing technology 16:30 Hugh and Louise discuss TB testing, vaccination and farm impact 24:24 Hot weather, harvest prospects and climate adaptation 26:30 Brexit: 10 years on for farm machinery trade 27:04 Bill King on export friction after Brexit 31:25 Hugh and Louise assess Brexit’s farming legacy 36:45 This week’s commodity prices 38:31 Courteenhall Estate wins King’s Award for sustainability 42:41 Looking ahead to Groundswell Useful links * Defra farming roadmap * Defra bovine TB strategy update * Cheffins farm machinery auctions * Courteenhall Estate * King’s Awards for Enterprise * Groundswell This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. We love to hear from you: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. 

Defra has finally unveiled the budget for its flagship Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme – but is £240 million enough to meet demand from farmers? Former Natural England agriculture head Geoff Sansome gives his verdict – and explains why thousands of farmers could still be left in limbo when existing agreements expire. We also bring you an exclusive interview with new Red Tractor chief executive Paul McLaughlin, who responds to criticism of the farm assurance scheme. Just weeks into the role, Mr McLaughlin outlines plans for reform and explains how technology, AI and simpler audits could help rebuild trust with farmers. Recorded at the Cereals event at Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm, we discuss why this year’s show has been one of the most talked-about industry events in years. And we hear about the NFU’s call for government support to protect growers from soaring fertiliser costs. Finally, we meet the team behind Only Farmers – a new online platform designed to help farmers market products, share equipment, promote experiences and connect with customers. Guests * Geoff Sansome – former head of agriculture, Natural England * Red Tractor chief executive Paul McLaughlin * NFU president Tom Bradshaw * Lisa Hogan – co-founder, Only Farmers * Wolfe Bentinck – co-founder, Only Farmers Chapters 00:00 SFI budget finally confirmed 01:45 Geoff Sansome on whether £240m is enough 05:41 Industry reaction to the SFI announcement 09:02 Exclusive: Red Tractor chief executive Paul McLaughlin 11:36 Why assurance reform is taking so long 14:05 Imports, standards and farmer frustrations 16:38 Technology, AI and the future of farm assurance 20:41 Panel reaction to Red Tractor’s plans 24:49 Cereals 2026 from Diddly Squat Farm 25:14 Has Jeremy Clarkson changed Cereals? 30:51 NFU fertiliser resilience plan explained 35:43 Markets: beef, sheep, pigs, cereals and diesel 38:34 Only Farmers: a new platform for agriculture 41:47 Can farmers benefit from Only Farmers? 43:50 Final thoughts and goodbye Useful links Sustainable Farming Incentive Red Tractor National Farmers Union Cereals Event Only Farmers Natural England Farmers Weekly This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. We love to hear from you: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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 live Cereals 2026 episode tackles one big question: with high input costs and mediocre grain prices will planting cereals this autumn be financially worthwhile? The discussion starts with markets and margins, including break-even wheat prices, grain carryover, milling wheat premiums and the risks of holding out for higher prices. Part Two looks at how growers can reduce risk through variety choice, BYDV resistance, hybrid wheat, yellow rust resilience and AHDB decision-support tools. Finally, we asks whether the public and politicians really understand farming — and how Clarkson’s Farm has changed the conversation about food security and farm profitability. Guests Andrew Williamson – Shropshire farmer and NFU Combinable Crops Board vice-chair Andrew Dewing – Dewing Grain chief executive and grain trader Clare Leaman – NIAB cereal variety specialist Sacha White – AHDB crop protection scientist Patrick Galbraith – Daily Telegraph rural affairs writer Charlie Ireland – Ceres Rural and adviser to Clarksons Farm George Badger – Ceres Rural and adviser to Clarksons Farm Chapters 00:00 – Introduction Live from Cereals 2026 at Diddly Squat Farm. 01:15 – Are cereals still worth drilling? Andrew Williamson outlines the pressure on arable margins. 04:12 – Grain markets and break-even prices Andrew Dewing assesses wheat values, cost of production and selling opportunities. 05:30 – Feed prices and livestock links Hugh Broom looks at what low grain prices mean for livestock producers. 09:04 – Fertiliser costs and possible support The NFU’s call for help if fertiliser prices spike. 11:44 – Feed wheat, milling wheat and risk Louise Impey and the panel discuss whether milling wheat still stacks up. 16:37 – Grain marketing strategy When should growers lock in prices for harvest 2026 and 2027? 19:20 – Growing a cost-effective crop Claire Lehman and Sasha White join the discussion. 20:10 – BYDV-resistant varieties Why barley is moving faster than wheat on BYDV tolerance. 21:30 – Hybrid wheat Could new hybrid wheat varieties change the market? 23:13 – Yellow rust resistance How breeders are responding to resistance breakdowns. 24:24 – AHDB’s new BYDV tool Sasha White explains how the tool can help growers decide whether spraying is worthwhile. 28:28 – Decision support and SFI tools How AHDB is helping growers weigh up complex agronomic and business choices. 32:04 – Resilience over yield Why variety choice is increasingly about consistency and risk management. 34:45 – Does the public understand farming? Patrick Galbraith, Charlie Ireland and George Badger join the final panel. 35:52 – Telling farming stories in national media How farming issues are explained to non-farming audiences. 37:17 – Behind the scenes at Diddly Squat What Clarkson’s Farm gets right about farming life. 42:27 – Food security and public awareness Why the link between shoppers and producers remains fragile. 44:32 – Reasons for optimism Mixed farming, SFI, land opportunities and long-term business thinking. 49:09 – How farming is perceived Patrick Galbraith on public sympathy, politics and why farming should keep pushing its case. This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. We love to hear from you: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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 week, Defra confirms England’s Sustainable Farming Incentive will reopen for applications on 30 June – but only for some farmers, and with questions over budget. Farm business adviser Katie Hilton explains the key changes in SFI 26, including land use caps, no-till rules and revised payment rates. We also examine a High Court ruling which could mean lower meat inspection charges for abattoirs, processors and livestock producers. And royal recognition for Open Farm Sunday which celebrates its 20th anniversary – we find out why even small events can help reconnect the public with farming. Podcast guests: * Katie Hilton, director, Cheffins * John Royle, NFU chief livestock policy adviser * Rachel Risdon, Devon farmer and Open Farm Sunday host Chapters 00:53 – Sustainable Farming Incentive 12:59 – High Court ruling on meat inspection charges 17:18 – Why small abattoirs matter to livestock farmers 24:19 – Listener feedback on Red Tractor reform 27:32 – Farmers Weekly Podcast Live at Cereals 30:23 – Sainsbury’s white eggs and trailer safety 33:53 – Market prices 36:16 – Open Farm Sunday celebrates 20 years 40:23 – Why public engagement matters 43:11 – Closing remarks Useful links Sustainable Farming Incentive guidance Cheffins National Farmers Union Association of Independent Meat Suppliers British Meat Processors Association Food Standards Agency Open Farm Sunday LEAF Tilly Pass trailer safety Farmers Weekly stage at Cereals This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. We love to hear from you: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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 week, farmers report delays receiving payments from soil carbon scheme Agreena – with some growers saying they are owed thousands of pounds. We examine the latest Farm Assurance Review and ask whether Red Tractor and other schemes can deliver fairer treatment for UK grain producers facing competition from unassured imports. We review Harvest, the new book by former NFU president Baroness Minette Batters. And we visit the Green Farm Collective’s Soil to Slice conference in Harrogate, where farmers, millers, wholesalers and bakers are working together to build more value into regenerative supply chains. Chapters 00:00 Welcome and headlines 00:51 Agreena payment delays spark farmer frustration 09:40 Farm Assurance Review – what happens next? 19:56 Minette Batters’ new book Harvest 25:29 Sugar beet with a clover understorey 28:33 Rural crime falls by 21% 33:53 Markets: lamb breaks £9/kg, diesel dips below £1/litre 36:48 Soil to Slice: building value through regenerative supply chains 47:15 Podcast wrap-up Guests * George Dunn, Chief Executive, Tenant Farmers Association * Michael Kavanagh, Green Farm Collective * Verity Megginson, Yorkshire regenerative farmer * Natalia Spinetto, Director of Impact & Strategy, Collective Food * George Herbert, Hobbs House Bakery Useful links * Agreena * Tenant Farmers Association * Red Tractor Assurance * Green Farm Collective * Collectiv Food * Hobbs House Bakery This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. We love to hear from you: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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 week, police pledge tougher action on hare coursing after an Essex farmer suffers almost 200 incidents in eight months. The government unveils plans to slash tariffs on 100 food items imported into the UK. We examine the impact of food price controls on UK farmers. Beef sector leaders call for fairer pricing as the market eases ahead of the Beef Expo industry showcase at Melton Mowbray livestock market. And we meet the farmer testing “firewater” – a Defra-funded ADOPT project aiming to make nitrogen from air, water and electricity. Guests Tom Bradshaw – NFU president Neil Shand – chief executive, National Beef Association Hugh Brown – chief executive, Gillstream Markets / Melton Mowbray Market Matthew Register – Essex farmer Robyn Munton – NFU vice-president Tim Ellis – farmer involved in the Firewater ADOPT project Chapters 01:04 – Food tariffs and price caps 01:43 – Tom Bradshaw warning 03:24 – Food import controls analysed 14:36 – Beef market analysis 27:30 – Hare-coursing crackdown 30:34 – Red diesel thefts and fuel duty 34:30 – Markets update 36:46 – Fertiliser from air and water Useful links Targeted food tariff cuts NFU update on hare-coursing sentencing guidelines  NBA Beef Expo 2026  Adopt Project on firewater Farmers Weekly Market Prices This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Louise Impey and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. We love to hear from you: - Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. 

Fuel shortages triggered by the Iran conflict could leave crops rotting in fields this harvest unless food production is prioritised. We hear from CAAV adviser Jeremy Moody, who warns that red diesel availability is now an immediate concern for arable farmers, with further uncertainty for autumn planting. We also visit Dyson Farming’s new research centre in Lincolnshire, where managing director Daniel Cross explains how the business hopes to transform British agriculture. At the Pig and Poultry Fair, Pig World editor Alistair Driver reports on mixed market sentiment, falling pig prices and concern over Morrisons giving notice to some British pig suppliers. Plus, Hugh Broom rounds up the markets, Louise Impey reflects on glyphosate; and the Princess Royal receives for Farmers Club Cup for her long-standing support for UK agriculture. In this episode: 00:00 Fuel shortages threaten harvest 14:41 Dyson Farming’s research centre 30:05 Weather, silage, maize and glyphosate 35:08 Pig and Poultry Fair market mood 39:23 Hugh’s market report 42:11 Princess Royal receives Farmers Club Cup This week’s guests: Jeremy Moody, Central Association of Agricultural Valuers Daniel Cross, Dyson Farming Alistair Driver, Pig World Chris Riddle, The Farmers Club Useful links: House of Commons Efra Committee Dyson Farming Research British Pig & Poultry Fair Farmers Weekly markets data 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. We'd love to hear from you.

This week, food and environmental groups call for a ban on pre-harvest glyphosate use. We look at the alternatives – and whether this could be the thin end of the wedge. We also hear why farm leaders are pushing back against proposals to extend environmental permitting to beef and dairy farms. Plus, has the beef bubble burst? AHDB analyst Hannah Clarke explains why cattle prices have eased – and Hugh Broom looks at what could happen next. And finally, we visit Whins Farm in Cumbria, where the Addington Fund is offering a rare starter farm tenancy for a new entrant. In this episode: 0:00 Pre-harvest glyphosate: should it be banned? 11:02 Environmental permitting for beef and dairy 20:23 Farm update, silage and maize drilling 22:51 Women in Agriculture Awards 24:08 Beef prices: has the market turned? 34:10 Markets with Hugh Broom 36:05 Starter farm tenancy at Whins Farm, Cumbria This week’s guests: Martin Lines, Nature Friendly Farming Network Paul Tompkins, NFU deputy president Hannah Clarke, AHDB lead analyst Simon Mountjoy, Addington Fund Useful links: Women in Agriculture Network Addington Fund Whins Farm tenancy details GSC Grays tenancy application details Farmers Weekly markets data This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker, Abi Kay and Hugh Broom. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Abi: linkedin.com/in/abi-kay-38927130/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. We'd love to hear from you.

This week’s episode is brought to you with Bayer Crop Science. As fertiliser prices rise and new-season supplies tighten, we ask when farmers should buy — and whether a little-and-often approach is the best way to manage risk. We also look at a new 25-year regenerative farm business tenancy from the Duchy of Cornwall, and ask whether longer agreements could give tenants the confidence to invest for the future. Plus, TikTok cow-hugging, seeds that can “hear” rain, Welsh election pledges, this week’s markets — and how artificial intelligence is being used to count birds on farm. In this episode: 0:00 Fertiliser prices and supply concerns 12:38 Bayer Crop Science: Vivalis fungicide 15:40 Duchy of Cornwall launches 25-year regenerative FBT 26:20 Cow-hugging, rare breeds and seeds hearing rain 32:25 Welsh election pledges, milk production and lab-grown meat 35:50 Markets with Hugh Broom 38:40 AI bird counting and biodiversity monitoring This week’s guests: Michael Pater, Origin Soil Nutrition Rachel Banks, Bayer Crop Science Matthew Morris, Duchy of Cornwall George Caterer, Wilder Sensing 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. We'd love to hear from you.

Celebrity farmer Jeremy Clarkson speaks out as soaring fuel and fertiliser costs force arable growers to rethink autumn cropping plans. MPs urge Kier Starmer to help reduce red diesel prices as they tell the prime minister the Iran war makes food security paramount. We preview this summer’s Cereals event – to be held on 10-11 June at Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm in the Cotswolds. And how a royal estate is working to improve safety on its tenant farms. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. We'd love to hear from you.

In this episode, Travellers set up an unauthorised encampment in Hertfordshire and new planning rules face their biggest test yet. The situation has big implications for growers and livestock producers – as Louise finds out when she spoke to one local farmer affected by the development. How cereal farmers could secure a fairer share from the grain market and help mitigate the impact of rising input costs, and we’ve the latest market prices And we meet the dairy farmer raising money for the Sepsis trust – in memory of his father. Milk producer Ross Edwards, who is running the London marathon, has set up a Just Giving page so well-wishers can make a donation to the Sepsis Trust. Advice for farmers about how to reduce the risk of sepsis – and where to seek help – is available on the Sepsis Trust website. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. We'd love to hear from you.

In this episode, farm charities offer a listening ear as inheritance tax rules come into effect – leaving farming families facing a hefty bill following the death of a loved one. We’ve the latest on help for those who might be affected by the changes, including farmers who haven't yet taken advice. The Farming Community Network helpline is 03000 111 999 (7am to 11pm daily) or via email at help@fcn.org.uk. Electricity standing charges go up this month – we examine what it means for your farm business with some suggestions for what you can do. What’s hot and what’s not: we look at the latest arable farm management software, including the options and prices thanks to Mike Abram. And we catch up with the National Sheep Association about a new law on livestock worrying – which could help to reduce dog attacks on sheep this Easter Bank Holiday. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. We'd love to hear from you.

    In this episode, an influential group of MPs launches a campaign to boost farm profitability. The Labour Rural Research Group has already had some success persuading the government to ease back on inheritance tax for farmers. We speak to Noah Law MP and ask: will their campaign be successful this time around? Lamb prices boom in Scotland – we find out why and how long the good times will last. Hugh visits Denmark where he gets to grips with livestock biosecurity. And with the Easter holidays approaching, Louise visits an indoor ski slope – on a farm near Luton. Abi Kay's article asking: Are farmers really to blame for water pollution? is available online and in Farmers Weekly on 27 March 2026. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. We'd love to hear from you.

In this episode, red diesel prices reach new highs as the Iran War escalates. The government unveils it’s long-awaited Land Use Framework – and says farmland must be managed differently and some must come out of production. There's concern for upland farmers who face being shut out of two flagship agri-environment schemes. And how one farmer is managing to make a profit – despite all these challenges and more. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly To contact, sponsor or advertise on 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. We'd love to hear from you.

UK cereal farmers earn less than the minimum wage, according to the latest government figures. Why environmental payments aren’t delivering for growers and livestock producers. And Reform leader Nigel Farage is under fire after saying we shouldn’t worry about cheap imports of chlorinated chicken. Farm business income figures for England are published by Defra based on information collected from farmers by the annual Farm Business Survey. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. We'd love to hear from you.

As war spreads across the Middle East, we look at the implications for UK farmers – including the impact on fertiliser, fuel and food security.  In a volatile market, we examine the latest information on prices and availability – and what you can do to secure vital farm inputs.  Supply chains both up and down from the farm gate have already been affected as the world gets to grips with a widening conflict at a key time of the farming year. We also examine the issue of UK food security with Professor Tim Lang. Part-recorded on location at Origin Soil Nutrition at Great Yarmouth in Norfolk; at farmer-owned buying group Fram Farmers in Framlingham; and on farm at Hoxne, Suffolk. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. We'd love to hear from you.

Just what is the government’s long-term plan for farm support? We’ve an exclusive interview with Defra farm minister Angela Eagle. We get to grips with the latest proposals for the revamped Sustainable Farming Incentive – how your business will be affected. A campaigning farmer hits out over lack of action on fly tipping – and takes Defra secretary Emma Reynolds to task over the issue And what next for the National Farmers Union following it’s latest leadership elections? A bumper episode for you this week – recorded as live at NFU’s annual conference at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham on 24-25 January 2026. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. We'd love to hear from you.

In this episode, we discuss the reasons behind a big drop in farmland sales – and it isn't all to do with inheritance tax. We join dozens of farmers who’ve teamed up to create the UK’s biggest ever landscape recovery project – worth £100m We've the latest on the Red Tractor farm assurance scheme; and we've a chocolate spot disease warning for winter bean growers. And we speak to the farmer with eight reservoirs who has a special message about winter rainfall storage. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. We'd love to hear from you.

In this episode, as concern grows about funding for the government's flagship agri-environment scheme, we look at ways to farm profitably without subsidies. Farmers who are doing just that share their secrets at the Norfolk Farming Conference and the BASE UK conference in Huntingdon. They include Nottinghamshire farmer Joe Howard, of Howard Farms and Grassroots Farming; and Cotswolds farmer Henry Astor, of Bruern Farms, who is supplying Gails bakeries. We also talk to Cambridgeshire farmer David Wheatley, of Petite Peonies; and Lancashire farmer Martin Caunce, of Brow Farm. We also discuss the LinkedIn article about future funding for the Sustainable Farming Incentive by Geoff Sansome, former head of agriculture at Natural England. We find out how to add extreme value to farm output – and how to harness the power of social media as a valuable marketing tool to consumers. And we meet Sam Stables – the Herefordshire farmer who raised more than £40,000 for charity by walking 142 miles to London during Mind Your Head Week. If you wish to make a donation, you can do so via Sam's fundraising page. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. We'd love to hear from you.

As a wet winter sees leaves many fields under water, a special drainage scheme is delivering benefits for farmers and the environment. We pay a special visit to the Allerton Project at the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust farm in Leicestershire. How a closer relationship with the EU could benefit UK growers and livestock producers – if we can get the balance right. Read the EFRA Committee report here. And we discover how encouraging team spirit on the farm can help improve your mental wellbeing during Mind Your Head week. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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.

Did the government break its own rules when it imposed inheritance tax on farmers? The High Court orders an urgent two-day judicial review of the Chancellor’s plans to hit family-owned businesses with death duties. Beef and dairy producers could have to pay a licence to farm – we find out what buying an environmental permit could mean for your farm business. And we meet the arable growers achieving amazing yields – and examine what the future holds for the Yield Enhancement Network. 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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, edited and produced by Johann Tasker. To attend or sponsor future Farmers Weekly Question Time events, visit fwi.co.uk/questiontime. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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.

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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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. Edited and produced by Johann Tasker. Contact or follow Johann: linkedin.com/in/johanntasker/ Contact or follow Louise: linkedin.com/in/louise-impey-95470b20b/ Contact or follow Hugh: linkedin.com/in/hugh-broom-9b11906a/ For Farmers Weekly, visit fwi.co.uk or follow linkedin.com/company/farmers-weekly 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.