Government Unveils Support Package for British Farmers at Oxford Farming Conference
8 Jan 2026
Speaking at the 2026 Oxford Farming Conference, Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds announced a package of measures to strengthen partnerships with farmers, drive growth, and secure a future for British agriculture.
Key actions include:
Inheritance Tax Reform – The threshold for Agricultural and Business Property Relief will rise from £1 million to £2.5 million, allowing couples to pass on up to £5 million tax-free. Around 85% of farming estates will pay no inheritance tax in 2026/27, while ensuring fairness for the largest estates.
Simplified Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) – A streamlined scheme will launch in June for small farms and those without agreements, with a wider application window in September.
£30m Farmer Collaboration Fund – Supporting farmer groups and networks to build partnerships for environmental action and business growth.
Transforming England’s Uplands – A new long-term approach with Dr Hilary Cottam and Defra will begin in Dartmoor and Cumbria, pooling resources to create income streams and community-led change.
Extension of Farming in Protected Landscapes – Continued for three years with £30m funding, enabling farmers and communities to deliver large-scale benefits for wildlife, climate, and rural economies.
These measures respond to Baroness Batters’ Farming Profitability Review and mark a significant step toward a stronger, more sustainable farming sector. Full details can be found here: https://defrafarming.blog.gov....