How do farming schemes in Wales and England compare?

This article was produced by Sarah Coe while on placement with Senedd Research. The original article was published on the Senedd Research website in English and Welsh. Senedd Research provides impartial research and analysis to Members of the Senedd and committees. It publishes lots of its work for everyone to read and you can follow them on X @SeneddResearch.

Leaving the EU in 2020 meant the UK could find new ways to support farmers financially after decades under EU Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) rules.

Agriculture is a devolved matter: each nation is taking its own approach, at its own pace. New and developing Welsh and English farm support schemes share the aim of promoting sustainable farming practices, but through different mechanisms and incentives. Both the UK Government and the Welsh Government say their new approaches recognise that producing food and protecting the environment go hand in hand.

This briefing looks at key things the two nations’ farming schemes have in common – and where they differ. Note, it considers the Welsh Government’s plans from its recent consultation, however these are subject to change. Differences between the schemes will be of interest for cross-border farms and also when considering the UK common market.

More detail on proposals for Wales can be found in the Senedd Research Briefing Sustainable Farming Scheme: 2024 update. The House of Commons Library Insight New approaches to farm funding in England provides information on English schemes.