Farmers to be given £3bn funding to safeguard against Brexit

Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. The money – to be spread over two years – will be used to support farmers when the UK leaves the European Union and the Common Agricultural Policy direct payments scheme next year. “Farmers can enter the new year with confidence that they have our backing and will be able to thrive after Brexit.” The environment secretary Theresa Villiers added: “Outside the EU we will have a simpler, fairer funding system – one that rewards farmers for enhancing our environment and safeguarding our high animal welfare standards. “We are committed to making sure our rural communities feel the benefits of Brexit and will ensure our farmers get a better deal.” NFU Scotland’s president Andrew McCornick said: “With us set to leave the European Union and the Common Agricultural Policy on 31 January 2020, it is essential that the farming industry knows where it stands with regards direct payments. Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events “When we meet ministers and MPs in the new year, we will press for a long-term funding commitment for farming and measures that will help farmers secure a fairer share of returns from the supply chain.” Press Association