Debate on the future of sheep farming

Sheep farming is a significant part of the UK agricultural sector, shaping both landscapes and rural economies in the four areas of the UK. There are some 31.8 million sheep in the UK, down from a recent peak of 34.8 million in 2017Sheep are predominantly, but not exclusively, found in the north and west of the UK. These are typically hillier areas with high levels of rainfall. This provides excellent conditions for growing grass and these areas are less well suited to other types of farming.

The UK uses a three-tier breeding structure, which involves systematic crossbreeding. This system allows sheep farming in a variety of climates and environments. The UK is made up of a range of terrains and landscapes, with around 90 different sheep breeds and crosses, each suited to different purposes and environments. Common breeds include the Suffolk, Texel, and Scottish Blackface.

The primary product of sheep farming today is meat, particularly lamb. The UK exports a significant amount of sheep meat. Although less dominant than meat, wool is also produced. The UK produces a variety of wool types. Milk and sheepskin are also produced, though they represent a smaller portion of the industry. The UK also imports sheep products and new free trade agreements negotiated since the UK left the EU (for example, with Australia and New Zealand) include tariff concessions for a range of products, such as lamb meat.

The future of sheep farming is also dependent on how land use policies evolve to meet environmental challenges such as climate change and how food production and environmental aims are balanced. The government set out its priorities for England in the Environment Improvement Plan in 2023, including the role for more environmentally friendly farming in achieving its targets. Environmental campaigners more marginal sheep farming areas to focus on nature recovery, to increase biodiversity and restore natural habitats. The National Sheep Association does not want a reduction in sheep numbers. It has called for a “long-term vision and strategic direction for UK agriculture, food and land use [… with] broad sustainability targets and with agreed goals and adequate funding.” It wants food production to be recognised as being of national strategic importance and accepted as a public good.