- British farmers have warned they are at breaking point as extreme heatwaves, drought, and rising costs threaten crops, livestock, and livelihoods.
- Agriculture representatives and climate advisers are urging the government and Andy Burnham to cut red tape to allow easier construction of on-farm reservoirs.
- Farmers are struggling to access financial aid after the Sustainable Farming Incentive was abruptly closed in 2025 and reopened only to small farms under 50 hectares.
- Heat stress and poor harvests are affecting milk production and grain yields, with warnings that food prices could rise as a result.
- Defra said it is working alongside the Environment Agency and water sector to help farmers build irrigation reservoirs and build resilience to climate shocks.
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