- Farmers across England are set to receive £65 million in government aid to help deal with severe drought conditions that have pushed many businesses to the breaking point.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham will also unveil a £15 million fund for on-farm reservoirs to improve water security during future dry summers.
- Country Land and Business Association president Gavin Lane welcomed the announcement but described it as a temporary fix, warning the UK lacks a plan for climate change adaptation.
- Extreme heat and drought have led to early harvests with significantly reduced yields, heat stress in livestock and warnings of potential fruit, potato and dairy shortages.
- Agricultural workers are also struggling with escalating fuel and fertiliser costs, alongside difficulties accessing the government's Sustainable Farming Incentive scheme.
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