The Rural Bulletin: 25th January, 2019

Andrew Shirley, Head of Rural Research, comments

A huge part of the problems facing agriculture are based on the public’s – and even scientists’ -perception of it. Only this morning, somebody had written into the Metro newspaper implying that modern meat was all produced intensively and was full of antibiotics – perhaps they’ve not been to the countryside and seen all the cows and sheep wandering around in fields or over hill and dale.

The findings of the EAT Lancet Commission report are just another example of this. Well meaning, I’m sure, but raising more issues than they solve. British farming has such a strong welfare and health story to share, but the message seems not to be getting across.

Sustainable Food Trust respond to EAT Lancet Commission report 

The Sustainable Food Trust (SFT) has highlighted the fundamental lack of agricultural understanding in the EAT Lancet Commission report - released 16 Jan - which recommended a 50% reduction in red meat in our diets while doubling the amount of nuts, fruits, vegetables and legumes. 

The SFT pointed out that if the population were to reduce their beef and lamb intake, this could cause over consumption of poultry, leading to both negative environmental and health outcomes. 

Patrick Holden, chief executive of the SFT said: “A key weakness in the report is the failure to fully differentiate between livestock that are part of the problem and those that are an essential component of sustainable agricultural systems. This results in messages that are likely to add to existing confusion around what constitutes a healthy and sustainable diet.”

HMRC expands digital tax system trial to include farm partnerships

Farm businesses which are in partnerships can now trial HMRC’s Making Tax Digital for VAT, where previously it had been sole traders and companies, reported Farmers Weekly.  

From April 2019, businesses with an annual turnover of more than £85,000 will have to electronically submit their VAT returns – with HMRC approved software. 

There is more information on the HMRC website about how to join the trial and how to prepare for the changes. 

Scottish Government plans to test mobile abattoirs

The falling number of abattoirs in Scotland has decreased over the past few years, has led to the Scottish Government announcing it will be testing the viability of mobile abattoirs. Already popular in Canada, New Zealand and many EU countries, the benefits include increased animal welfare due to animals not having to travel.

The Scottish Conservatives support the plans for mobile abattoirs and have called for immediate action. “The case for a network of mobile abattoirs has been well established and it must be set up now without delay,” says Donald Cameron, Scottish Conservative shadow cabinet secretary on rural economy and connectivity. 

Second referendum causes divide between UK farmers

A second referendum is one option for the UK after MPs rejected Theresa May’s proposed withdrawal agreement for leaving the EU. However, this has split opinion in the agricultural industry.

It was reported by the Farmers Weekly that the NFU has warned leaving without a deal would create a trade embargo on exports to the EU for livestock and animal products. 

Brexit director for NFU Nick von Westenholz said: “At the moment, the efforts of all sides have got to be focused on achieving a deal. The NFU has been clear that a no-deal Brexit would be catastrophic for British farming and food production.”

The Farmers Union of Wales agree with the NFU and have called on the Government to withdraw Article 50 and delay Brexit. 

However, Farmers For Action Northern Ireland (FFANI) argue that it is time for a second referendum. William Taylor, FFANI co-ordinator said: “UK political failure is now causing hardship and stress for many businesses and people across the UK, Ireland and across the channel.”

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