Resilience is a popular goal for politicians, big business and also farming. The 2026 Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) had the title ‘Growing Resilience’ and was led by Jude McCann whose day job with the Farming Community Network gives him a ring-side seat at the problems of our industry. He has seen a procession of ministers of state take on the challenge of farming and rural affairs which today is led by Angela Eagle as Minister of State for Food Security and Rural Affairs who is aided by Emma Reynolds, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs who addressed the OFC on Jan 8.
Eagle and Reynolds follow a quick succession of ministers. She was preceded by Daniel Zeichner (2024 – 2025); Mark Spencer (Con 2022 – 2024); Victoria Prentis (Con 2020 – 2022); George Eustice (Con 2013 – 20) and Robert Goodwill (Con 2019). Each needed a rapid course on the issues involved.
None of these previous ministers had the welcome from farmers as was given to Emma Reynolds, when 100 tractors descended on the conference venue of the University Examination Schools. Drivers were lined up in the High Street and spent 30-40 minutes leaning on their horns in an unsuccessful attempt to out-shout the minister of State.
The protest had a confused response, with conference delegates not knowing the exact purpose given the changes to inheritance tax rules which had just be made. Many delegates were under the impression the battle had been largely won – but apparently not.
Resilience is largely seen in terms of climate; the supply and cost of services and utilities; the control and cost of disastrous events; the multiplier as issues as passed on from one business sector to another. Resilience involves all those in the farm business. Recognising where these come from, and how they can be managed, made for a useful conference.
Costs of control depend on the actions needed. The protesting farmers, and those of similar mind who were attending the ‘Real’ other Oxford conference, largely looked at the threats coming from global warming and other events beyond our control. The whole business will make for depressing analysis for many farmers, and provide huge opportunities for those involved.
The protesting farmers, and those of similar mind who were attending the ‘Real’ other Oxford conference, largely looked at the threats coming from global warming and other events beyond their control. Yet the protesters are a potential threat themselves, as these involved will be away from their work. Livestock will be at greater risk, the day will be largely wasted.
There’s the chance of retaliation, with tighter rules over demos and tighter regulation of farmer privileges such as red diesel, business rates on farm buildings, tractor tax discs etc.
Mike Donovan 2026
Nb: I am always interested in readers’ comments which can be sent to [email protected]
