6

Require Government to consult stakeholders and clearly communicate ELMS future direction

Recommendation
A transparent policy on the direction of the Environmental Land Management Schemes (ELMS) and other subsidy arrangements is crucial. If the Government is serious about improving ELMS outcomes it must consult with stakeholders and communicate its plan clearly. Confidence in the schemes must be urgently repaired to secure their future success. Closing the Sustainable Farming Incentive 2024 (SFI24) without notice has affected trust in the Government and has left many farmers without the funding they expected and at risk of becoming unviable in the period before the next scheme is introduced. (Conclusion, Paragraph 27)
Government Response

A response document is linked to this report, dated 3 September 2025. Response attribution to this conclusion has not been verified. Read the response document.

Addressee Bodies
Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs
Timeline
Recommendation age 1.3 yr
Report published 16 May 2025