Enough of this farming nonsense - let's get back to basics for the people

Agriculture ● National by BarnsleyBrummie · 🏷️ 1. Concerned Citizen · Fringe · 1 month ago
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We need to drastically change farming subsidies so they directly support growing food for local people, not just churning out whatever makes the most money for big agribusiness. For too long, we’ve sent taxpayer cash to farmers to grow crops for export or for biofuels, while our own shelves get filled with imported rubbish and food prices go through the roof. It’s time we told the money where to go: growing fruit, vegetables, and quality meat that people can actually afford right here in the UK.

This means shifting the billions we currently hand out to the biggest landowners and redirecting it towards smaller, community-focused farms. Imagine grants for farmers who want to set up local markets, or for those willing to grow heritage varieties that are packed with flavour and nutrition, not just high yields.

BarnsleyBrummie ✒️ Parliamentary Secretary Fringe

🤝 The CooperativeCommonwealth Party

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Discussion (3)

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I agree that subsidies need looking at, but surely we can't just stop supporting farmers who are producing for export. That's a significant part of our economy too. And I do wonder how much of our fruit and veg actually can be grown here year-round, even with more grants.
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It's not about stopping exports entirely, it's about priorities. We're subsidizing them to grow stuff we could just buy from, say, Spain, while we struggle to grow enough decent apples or root vegetables domestically.

Honestly, it reminds me of when my youngest’s school tried to cut down on packed lunches to save money, but then ended up paying more for catering that mostly served processed junk anyway. Seems like we're always finding ways to get it wrong when it comes to sensible spending and basic needs.
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It’s not about abandoning exports, it’s about having a sensible balance. We’re subsidizing things that could be easily imported, while neglecting the potential for growing more diverse produce domestically.

It’s a bit like the SNP always talking about investing in renewables but then having to rely on England for wind turbines that are actually made elsewhere. We need self-sufficiency in the things that matter, and that includes our food.
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