UK Farmers 'pushed to the edge' as business closures spiral

Over 6,000 farm businesses have closed in the past year, according to the ONS. This marks the highest number of closures since 2017. Significant closures followed recent tax reforms impacting agricultural inheritance and business. Despite 3,190 new businesses created, the net loss stands at 3,175.

CLA president Victoria Vyvyan called the figures "alarming," noting that rural businesses are struggling due to red tape and rising National Insurance. Critics cite increasingly unviable conditions for farms, warning of a looming "food security disaster." Government officials claim to provide substantial support to rural sectors, including billions for farming and transportation improvements.