BBC Radio 4 - Farming Today, 06/07/2026 Commoners can apply for government schemes, fishing, fertiliser

Commoners in England who graze livestock on Common Land can now apply for government agri-environment schemes after a computer system problem excluded them, campaigners say. The issue was not eligibility but the Rural Payments Agency’s software failing to process applications for commoners under the new farming environmental support arrangements. The programme change is described as a fix that reopens access for affected applicants. Separately, the broadcast also highlights pressures facing agriculture and fishing, including shifting sea temperatures, rising fuel costs, and offshore windfarm developments. It frames the week-long focus around how farmers weigh long-term options amid higher fertiliser and fuel prices and challenging weather. The show is presented by Anna Hill, produced by Rebecca Rooney.