Agricultural leaders in the UK have warned that British farming is experiencing its most challenging summer in decades, due to extreme weather, rising costs, and widespread disease. The National Farmers' Union (NFU), representing thousands of farmers, has urged the government to provide "crisis loans" to support struggling producers and to implement tax and planning reforms to secure the nation's long-term food supply. The NFU’s report highlights a decline in the UK's self-sufficiency in 10 of 11 key agricultural products over the past 30 years, driven by falling production and rising consumer demand. These challenges are compounded by global climate change and international instability, which have disrupted domestic food production. NFU president Tom Bradshaw described 2026 as the most difficult summer for British farming in at least a generation, with no sector left unscathed. He highlighted the rising and unpredictable costs of farming, the spread of bluetongue disease, which affects livestock, and severe droughts that have damaged crops and reduced fruit and vegetable production. These issues have led to forage shortages for livestock and raised animal welfare concerns. Bradshaw warned that the financial strain on farmers is severe, with confidence in the sector at a low point and investment levels suffering. He predicted that food inflation could reach 6% next year, even without the impact of a strong El Niño weather pattern that affected global climates. Bradshaw emphasized that the challenges facing farmers are not insurmountable, and that the sector is ready to support the government's goals for economic and environmental progress. He called for practical policies that would restore confidence, strengthen resilience, and provide a clear path for investment and growth. The NFU has also proposed including infrastructure projects such as reservoirs in annual investment allowances to boost domestic food production. However, Bradshaw criticized a recent change to Inheritance Tax, which raised the threshold to £2.5 million, arguing that it limits investment in farm infrastructure and reduces the value of farms over time. Environment Secretary Angela Eagle acknowledged the difficulties faced by farmers, including rising costs, water shortages, and climate-related disease outbreaks like bluetongue. She noted that a third of farmers reported making no profit and stressed the need to improve this situation by ensuring farmers earn a fair income. The government has introduced a £65 million support package to address immediate issues, including better access to water and £15 million for on-farm reservoirs. Eagle also highlighted the success of a new agri-environment scheme and said the government remains committed to helping farmers adapt and succeed, stating that a thriving farming sector is essential for the nation’s prosperity.