18/06/25 Gulf States trade deal, subsidy phase out and seaweed fertiliser
Anna Hill asks whether a new trade deal being negotiated with the Gulf States could open the UK up to imports of low-welfare meat from around the world.
The NFU has confirmed it sent a private letter to the Prime Minister, raising concerns over a prospective trade deal with the Gulf States. It said the deal could open the UK up to imports of low-welfare meat from the Gulf, and more importantly, many other countries around the world. Although meat from the Gulf States might come up to UK hygiene standards, some welfare groups are concerned about the conditions animals are kept in, and the intensive nature of production, especially poultry.
Annual payments farmers in England receive based on the amount of land they have will be capped at just £600 next year. New details have emerged after last week's Spending Review.
And there’s evidence that humans have been using seaweed as a fertiliser for thousands of years. When chemical fertilisers were developed a century ago, that use of seaweed largely died out, but for some, it's making a comeback.
Presented by Anna Hill
Produced by Heather Simons
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- Wed 18 Jun 2025 05:45ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Radio 4
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