Lincolnshire NFU's James Peck on the support growers need to produce our food

Lincolnshire NFU's James Peck pens our latest Word on the Ground growers column...

Business secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg has outlined plans to help cut energy bills for businesses for the next six months.

Though these go some way to easing business fears about rising energy costs, there is still further detail needed about what will be available for farming firms after the initial period.

The Energy Bill Relief Scheme will see a cut in energy prices for non-domestic energy customers, such as businesses, charities and public sector organisations.

The Government says the scheme will support growth, prevent unnecessary insolvencies and protect jobs. The NFU welcomes the detail announced in the energy support package which will provide a much-needed cushion for farmers, growers and food businesses who are vulnerable to high wholesale energy prices.

Given the package does not cover limits on standing charges, it’s essential the Government continues to assess the full impact energy bills will have on business confidence and production.

We also need urgent clarity on what support will be available for food businesses after the initial six month period.

Energy plays a core role in the production of our food and throughout the food supply chain, from fertiliser production and heating glasshouses and livestock buildings, to baking bread and keeping facilities clean.

Farmers and growers simply can’t produce the food the nation needs without affordable energy.

Because of this close link between energy and food, the Government must prioritise access to affordable energy for food production and the food supply chain. Continued support will be key for curtailing food price inflation going forward and ensuring the provision of affordable, nutritious, climate-friendly food for the country.

We will continue working with government departments to bring our members the clarity and support their businesses need.