Andrew Griffith MP, Member of Parliament for Arundel & South Downs, has welcomed new funding for farmers who will receive more money for protecting and enhancing nature.
Announced at the Oxford Farming Conference yesterday, the Government confirmed that it would be increasing payment rates for farmers under its ‘Countryside Stewardship’ scheme – a fund to support the creation of one-off projects – with an average increase in support of 10%.
Additionally, the Government confirmed details of its new land management scheme which will support smaller businesses, including tenant farmers who rent their land. The scheme will back farmers who are working to improve their soil – representing a potential increase of 50% in funding for a 50-hectare farm which is currently receiving similar grants.
Commenting, Andrew Griffith MP said:
“Farmers are invaluable to our West Sussex countryside and our environment. They are crucial not only in ensuring there is food on our table, but also in our fight against climate change.
I am and always will be a proud supporter of our farmers. I am therefore pleased that they have received the support and clarity that they need to build their business and support our communities.”
