£65m Drought Aid for Farmers: Burnham's Climate Action Plan 2026

Farmers must not carry the risks of the climate crisis alone, Andy Burnham has said, as he announced £65m of funding to help them manage the devastating drought. This drought aid for farmers comes after intense pressure from Labour MPs and grassroots members, who argued the prime minister had been too slow to address the climate emergency. The funding package aims to support food producers facing crop failures, low yields, and early harvesting due to extreme heat and water scarcity.

Breaking Down the £65m Drought Aid Package

The majority of the funding, £50m, will be directed to the sustainable farming incentive (SFI), which pays farmers in England to support nature. This additional money brings the total SFI budget to £290m, with priority given to areas most affected by the drought. The remaining £15m will support the construction of on-farm reservoirs, providing a buffer for future dry summers.

Burnham chaired a Cobra meeting on extreme heat, wildfires, and drought this week, signaling a cross-government response. The plan includes more flexibility for food producers, such as allowing farmers to cut or graze land earlier than usual without losing payments, where grass is scarce. Improved water access through simpler licensing arrangements will also help farmers use water where it is most needed.

Comparing the Funding Allocation

To understand the impact, here's a breakdown of the £65m package:

Key Takeaways from the Announcement

• £50m boost to the SFI, helping farmers manage land sustainably during drought.
• £15m for reservoirs to secure water supplies for future dry periods.
• Flexible grazing rules allow farmers to use land earlier without losing payments.
• Simplified water licensing speeds up access to water for irrigation.
• Cross-government approach addresses farming, water, and infrastructure together.

Addressing Climate Risks for Agriculture

Burnham's visit to a farm in the south-west of England on Saturday underscores his commitment. He is expected to say, "I am meeting farmers to see the impact of the drought firsthand. This funding is a step forward, but we must do more to protect our food security." Campaigners, however, warn that the £15m for reservoirs is reallocated from existing funds and will only cover a "fraction" of what's needed, highlighting the scale of the challenge.

The drought has hit farmers hard, with some harvesting early and others seeing poor-quality produce. This package aims to alleviate immediate pressures while building long-term resilience. By investing in nature-friendly farming and water infrastructure, the government hopes to reduce the vulnerability of the agricultural sector to climate change.

How Farmers Can Access This Support

Farmers in England can apply for SFI payments through the Rural Payments Agency. The extra £50m will be distributed based on need, with drought-affected areas prioritised. For reservoir funding, farmers can apply for grants through existing schemes, though the reallocation means competition will be high. Improved water licensing arrangements will also be rolled out, reducing bureaucracy and speeding up approvals.

FAQ

This drought aid package marks a significant step in recognising the link between climate change and agriculture. While the funding provides immediate relief, long-term solutions will require sustained investment and policy changes. Farmers are encouraged to explore these support options and plan for a drier future.

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