Today, we unveil our 2024 manifesto for the next UK Government to secure a food system that delivers for all.

Although not often at the forefront of the public’s mind, farming has a valuable role to play in delivering on several areas, such as economic growth, improved public health and environmental recovery, each of which consistently ranks high in voters' views of the most critical issues facing the country. A joined-up, long-term vision for food and farming could deliver on these objectives and much more, with thriving farm businesses making significant contributions towards a more resilient and prosperous nation. 

In what will likely be an election year, farmers continue to face immense challenges on several fronts. Climate change and the onslaught of more extreme and unpredictable weather have wrought havoc on food production - 2023 witnessed the driest February in 30 years, the sixth wettest March on record, the hottest June ever recorded and the wettest October this century. The costs of inputs remain stubbornly high, while returns from the market are frustratingly low. 

As parties of all stripes prepare for the polls, a long-term plan for farming and the countryside has yet to materialise. Agriculture is often overlooked in favour of other priorities despite the wealth of opportunities it provides. For many farmers, this has contributed to an increased sense of apathy, frustration and political homelessness. Developing a viable pathway that enables farm businesses to produce healthy food in ways that meet our climate and nature goals isn’t easy, but it's essential.  Without it, prospective governments risk breaking any promises they make to the electorate on critical issues such as a resilient NHS, meeting net zero, or securing nature’s recovery.