Talk Farm season 2, episode 6: why British farming matters more than ever

In the final episode of this season of Talk Farm, the tables turn as Bryn Thomas, Partner in our Agriculture and Estates team, interviews the podcast’s usual host and Head of Team, Rory Hutchings, on why food security matters more than ever.

Bryn, who is also a working farmer, sits down with Rory to discuss HCR Law’s new report, Food for Thought: shaping sustainable farming futures.

Produced by our Agriculture and Estates team, Food for Thought explores the future of Britain’s food security. Drawing on insights from HCR Law experts alongside sector associations, unions, farmers and business owners, the report examines how policy uncertainty, structural barriers and economic pressures continue to undermine the UK’s ability to produce its own food – and the reforms needed to support a more resilient farming sector.

With global events putting supply chains under renewed strain, Rory explains why British food production should be seen as a matter of national resilience, not convenience. He reflects on the significant headwinds farming businesses face when policy isn’t viewed through the lens of food security, arguing that it must sit at the heart of policymaking and investment decisions.

Bryn and Rory also discuss the “death by a thousand cuts” many UK farmers are experiencing – from policy instability and tax uncertainty to planning friction and regulatory burden – and the impact this has on confidence, succession and the future pipeline of people entering farming.

The conversation draws on insights from contributors to the report, including Stephen Jacob on labour and skills, Aled Jones on farming’s cultural and economic value, Abi Reader on food production and government policy, Johnny Wake on the lived reality of planning hurdles and Rory Christie on risk and power imbalance in supply chain contracts.

Talk Farm highlights the challenges and opportunities shaping rural life in the UK. Each episode offers expert industry commentary and practical guidance for those navigating the issues facing agriculture and landed estates today.

Food for Thought is available to download here.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.