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The Farmers Weekly Podcast

Red Tractor controversy over greener farm commitment, bluetongue virus warning, what would a Labour government mean for UK farming? & London city farms get youngsters into agriculture

Oct 13, 2023
53:20

This week, the Red Tractor farm assurance scheme is embroiled in controversy after asking farmers to measure their carbon footprint.

Farmers say the scheme's plan for a 'greener farm commitment' means more expense and red tape – and the only real winners will be supermarkets.

Red Tractor bosses say the alternative is even greater costs as supply chains are told to demonstrate their environmental credentials.

But the National Farmers Union says farmers should have been properly consulted on the proposal, which will mean higher costs.

Who is right?

As a devastating bluetongue outbreak engulfs almost 2000 sheep farms in the Netherlands, we ask: how long before it reaches the UK?

What would a Labour government mean for British farmers? We find out by visiting the party's  annual conference in Liverpool.

On the markets, we've all the latest commodity prices.

And we find out how youngsters from London are leaving the big smoke to study agriculture – thanks to a city farms charity.

This episode of the Farmers Weekly Podcast is co-hosted by Johann Tasker and Surrey farmer , with additional reporting by Abi Kay.

You can contact the Farmers Weekly Podcast by emailing podcast@fwi.co.uk. In the UK, you can also text the word FARM followed by your message to 88 44 0 .

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