Following this week’s EFRA committee session in Westminster, the DUP Agriculture spokesperson accused the newly appointed DEFRA secretary, Emma Reynolds MP, of sidestepping a number of key issues, mainly involving the impact of proposed inheritance tax changes to APR and BPR; and the threat posed by lack lustre biosecurity at UK ports.

Ms Lockhart said: “DEFRA continually reminds us that it is committed to backing British farming and improving farm profitability, but the reality on the ground is very different.

“During her inaugural meeting with the EFRA committee, Ms Reynolds outlined four headline priorities for her department, but significant gaps remain around the issues that matter most to our rural and farming communities. These are real issues affecting the future viability of family farming businesses right across Northern Ireland and the wider UK.”

Carla Lockhart MP added: “It is no secret that more needs to be done at our borders to strengthen biosecurity and protect our agri-food sector. The risks of diseases such as Foot and Mouth disease and African Swine Flu entering the UK from Europe are very real, and yet we continue to see weaknesses in our border controls and communication. Given the scale and value of the UK’s agri-food industry, this complacency is alarming and unacceptable.

“I welcome the government’s commitment to back British agriculture, but our farming community needs clarity, not confusion. If this government is truly committed to backing farmers, it must demonstrate that in its actions, by protecting family farms for future generations, securing our borders, and ensuring that agricultural policy supports production, profitability, and long-term sustainability.”



Ms Lockhart has pledged to continue working with her DUP colleagues in Parliament, highlighting the need for fairness and stability for family farms.