Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has raised a series of questions in Parliament on issues affecting farmers and rural communities across Skipton and Ripon, seeking assurances from the Government on rural crime, fertiliser supplies, farming support and the future of agricultural services.
On rural crime, Julian asked what action the Government is taking to tackle offences that affect rural communities. The Government said it is working with the Home Office and police leaders through the Rural and Wildlife Crime Strategy 2025-28, which aims to reduce crime in rural areas and improve policing responses. Ministers also highlighted measures to tackle waste crime and prosecute offenders.
Julian also raised concerns about the availability of fertiliser and the impact of new regulations on farmers. He asked whether the introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism could affect fertiliser supplies. The Government responded that it remains committed to introducing the scheme from January 2027 and expects any additional costs for fertiliser to be modest, while keeping the policy under review.
In a separate question, Julian asked what steps are being taken to ensure adequate supplies of nitrogen fertiliser. Ministers said current supplies are sufficient for this season, with fertiliser sourced from both UK production and imports. The Government also stated that prices have stabilised in recent weeks and that it is continuing to work closely with the industry to monitor risks.
Julian also sought greater transparency for farmers on the price of fertiliser and red diesel. In response, the Government said fertiliser price data is now being published weekly by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, providing more up-to-date information for farmers. Ministers also pointed to action on red diesel, including engagement with the Competition and Markets Authority and reductions in duty rates.
Further, Julian questioned the Government on how it is coordinating agricultural payment schemes and application windows. Ministers said the recently published Farming Roadmap sets out plans to bring farming services together into a more streamlined system, making it easier for farmers to access payments, grants, advice and compliance information through a single service.
Finally, Julian asked the Government to assess the impact of moving away from direct farm payments on food production and farm business viability. The Government said it is continuing the transition away from area-based payments and increasing investment in environmental land management schemes, arguing that this approach will support productivity, nature recovery and long-term food security.
Julian said he would continue to press the Government on behalf of local farmers, land managers and rural communities across the constituency.
You can read all of Julian’s written parliamentary questions here.
