Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to announce £65 million of funding and new measures to help farmers across England manage the impact of this summer’s dry weather. The announcement comes as food producers face a series of heatwaves, little rainfall, and drought, forcing many to harvest crops early and resulting in lower yields and quality.
Funding package details
The package includes an extra £50 million for the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), bringing its total budget to £290 million this year, with priority given to areas of greatest need. An additional £15 million will support building on-farm reservoirs for future dry summers.
Mr Burnham will visit a farm in the South West on Saturday to meet affected farmers and outline the government’s plan following the driest July on record. He is expected to say: “Farmers are at the sharp end of a changing climate, and they should not be carrying that risk alone.”
Government response
The support follows the Prime Minister chairing the government’s emergency response committee (COBR) this week on extreme heat, wildfires, and drought. Officials say the measures form part of a coordinated cross-government response, bringing together action on farming, water, and vital infrastructure.
Farmers will see more flexibility in environmental schemes, such as being allowed to graze or cut land where grass is scarce without losing payments. Ministers will also publish further details on reducing barriers to building reservoirs in an updated national planning policy framework on Monday.
Water access and adaptation
Officials say farmers will see improved access to water during drought conditions, including support from the Environment Agency and simpler water access arrangements. Changes will speed up licence variations and make it easier to share water between holdings.
Environment Secretary Angela Eagle said: “I am acutely aware of the pressures exceptionally dry weather is placing on farm businesses. Our farmers are facing some of the toughest conditions in decades, which is why we’re stepping in with practical support to help them through these challenging conditions and build resilience for the future.”
Officials also highlighted broader adaptation actions, including plans to support nine new reservoirs and nearly £100 million invested to boost the country’s response to wildfires and extreme weather.
