NFU Scotland has welcomed a UK Government announcement stating that it will carry out a review of the arable supply chain. The move, which is the latest in a series of Defra addressing ‘fair dealings’ which is part of the Agriculture Act 2020 is a vital first step towards ensuring transparent contracts and a stronger position for combinable crop growers.
The announcement from Defra (5 June) follows years of concern about contract terms, late payments, and costly deductions facing farmers producing wheat, barley, oats and other arable crops. The review will consider issues such as written contracts, trading practices, and clearer pricing mechanisms.
NFUS President Andrew Connon said:
“This announcement is a positive step for our arable members and one which we welcome. Fair contracts should be the norm, not the exception. Farmers growing crops, just like those producing meat and milk, deserve transparency, fairness, and a proper share of value from the product they supply.”
“We urge DEFRA to accelerate its timescales for this review. Action is long overdue and growers cannot afford further delays in delivering transparency and fairness to arable contracts.
‘We also urge the review to fully address the critical issue of imported grain. Many of our members are deeply concerned that imported grain is of unverified or lower production standards, potentially undercutting the higher standards that Scottish producers must meet.
Andrew Connon added:
“The public wants Scottish produce, but our supply chains aren’t built to support that. Arable growers are too often left in the dark about prices and payment terms, which undermines confidence and investment. NFUS is pushing for greater transparency and fairness across the supply chain.”
While the announcement on crop contracts is a welcome development, NFU Scotland stressed that delivery will be key. The union will be engaging on this with the UK Government to ensure any new rules reflect the realities of Scotland’s grain trade and contract structures.
NFUS will continue pressing this agenda at the Royal Highland Show and beyond - insisting that transparency and fairness must be built into every contract, sourcing decision and food policy.
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Contact Carly Ross on 07860 642826