Government Cuts to Sustainable Farming Incentives Spark Concern
The government abruptly closed applications for the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) on Tuesday 11th March, giving the National Farmers' Union (NFU) just 30 minutes' notice.
The scheme was designed to help farmers adopt environmentally friendly practices and improve resilience against climate change, but farmers across the country, still reeling from the changes to Agricultural Property Relief announced in last autumn’s budget, now also face uncertainty on their sustainability goals.
The Sustainable Farming Incentive, a key part of the Environmental Land Management schemes, provides payments to farmers who take steps to enhance soil health, biodiversity, and water management. By supporting practices such as cover cropping, hedgerow planting, and soil aeration, the scheme strengthens both farming productivity and the natural environment.
Dr Roz Savage MP challenged the Farming Minister, Daniel Zeichner MP, in the House of Commons on 12th March over the sudden withdrawal of the scheme. She called the decision ‘deeply regrettable’ and urged the government to ensure farmers receive the support they need to transition towards more sustainable farming methods.
"Farmers are not just food producers – they are the stewards of our land. If we are serious about tackling climate change and protecting our countryside, we must back them with clear, consistent support," said Roz. "The government’s decision to pull the Sustainable Farming Incentive without warning has left many in limbo, and I will continue pressing for a long-term, reliable framework that helps farmers plan for the future."
Roz has worked closely with farmers in her constituency, recognising their crucial role in environmental stewardship. On Thursday 13th March, she joined a meeting at Braydon Forest Farm to discuss Natural Flood Management – an approach that works with natural processes to reduce flood risk while delivering multiple benefits for soil health, biodiversity, and water quality.
Flooding has become a recurring problem in Minety, Eastcourt, Brinkworth, Dauntsey, and beyond Great Somerford towards Chippenham, affecting roads, homes, and productive farmland. During the visit, Roz heard about practical solutions such as tree planting, wetland creation, and adaptive land management, which help mitigate flood impacts while supporting farm productivity. Farmers at the meeting highlighted the challenges of accessing funding and navigating complex regulations – difficulties worsened by the government’s decision to withdraw the SFI pilot scheme this week.
Addressing attendees, Roz reaffirmed her commitment to supporting farmers, both in Parliament and in the local area.
"Farmers play an integral role in climate resilience, but they need certainty and support. I’m gathering evidence from experts across our region to push for real commitments from the relevant agencies, ensuring that schemes are not only available but genuinely accessible to those who need them."
Roz will continue working alongside local farmers, landowners, and environmental groups to ensure they have a strong voice and the right support. By bringing together expert knowledge and practical experience from across the constituency, she aims to push for workable solutions that protect livelihoods, enhance the rural environment, and build resilience against the challenges ahead.
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Notes to Editors:
- Footage of Roz questioning the Minister in Parliament can be found here.