Labour blasted for ‘most cruel betrayal’ in ‘another shattering blow’ for farmers

The Labour government is facing backlash after halting applications to the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), a green farming scheme introduced after Brexit.

The program paid farmers to manage their land in environmentally friendly ways, but the government announced it would stop accepting new applications starting today.

Officials said details of a new scheme would be revealed after the spending review later this year, but the decision has sparked outrage, especially amid ongoing anger over inheritance tax changes affecting farmers.

Victoria Vyvyan, president of the Country Land and Business Association, called the move a “cruel betrayal,” arguing that the SFI was a groundbreaking policy that supported both farmers and the environment. She criticized Labour for scrapping the scheme, saying it harms nature, the environment, and food production at a time when Europe is facing war and instability.

James Wright, a farmer and policy director at the Conservative Rural Forum, echoed these concerns, calling the SFI a win-win for food production, the environment, and farm incomes. He accused Labour of showing “complete contempt” for farmers and rural communities by withdrawing the scheme without notice.

Farming YouTuber Olly Harrison, who has organized protests against inheritance tax changes, also slammed the decision, questioning why those in power don’t understand farming or the environment. He urged policymakers to visit farms and learn how agriculture works.

The government defended the move, stating that the SFI had reached its maximum participation limit due to high demand. Daniel Zeichner, Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs, emphasized that the government has allocated the largest budget ever for sustainable food production and remains committed to supporting rural communities.

Despite these assurances, the decision has left many farmers feeling abandoned and frustrated, with critics accusing Labour of undermining both the agricultural sector and environmental goals. The controversy adds to growing tensions between the government and rural communities, who feel their voices are being ignored.