AIC welcomes the Government's Land Use Framework for England
The Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) welcomes the announcement of a Land Use Framework for England.
This was a core priority during the 2024 General Election, and it is encouraging that the Government has recognised the challenges placed on land use arising from energy, housing, nature and, of course, food production.
Land is a finite resource, and there are competing pressures on it – from food and energy production to environmental goods and housing. What we do with our land matters for our economy, our productivity, our environment and our communities.
Unlike some other countries, the UK lacks a joined up, cross government strategy on land use or food security – something AIC has long advocated for.
While this Framework is a highly technical and detailed piece of work, we still require a clear Government strategy on how we maintain agricultural land and assets and improve productivity. Given the Government’s desire for growth, we now need clear direction on how our sector can contribute.
The upcoming 25 year farming roadmap and agricultural sector plans, as outlined by the Secretary of State, will be key to setting the direction, given the need to move into implementation and delivery by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Members can read the latest Member briefing on the newly published Land Use Framework, and what it means for food production and the agri-supply chain, here.
Authors
Ed Barker
Vicky Robinson
Vicky Robinson is Head of Sustainability and is responsible for leading and co-ordinating AIC's work on sustainability.
