Andy Burnham as Prime Minister: What It Could Mean for UK Farmers
Andy Burnham is now widely regarded as the frontrunner to succeed Keir Starmer as Labour leader — and, with Labour still in government, potentially the next Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. For farmers across England, this is a moment that matters. Whoever leads the government shapes the policy environment in which farm businesses operate: from planning rules and environmental land management to inheritance tax, trade and rural funding. Here is what we know so far, and what a Burnham-led government could mean for your holding.
What We Know About Andy Burnham's Rural Policy Agenda
Andy Burnham has built his political reputation on devolution, public investment and a commitment to levelling up the North of England as Mayor of Greater Manchester. His record shows a preference for long-term infrastructure spending, regional economic empowerment and green transition — themes that will inevitably shape rural policy if he reaches Downing Street. Burnham has not yet set out a detailed agricultural manifesto, but his public positions and Labour's existing policy framework give us useful signals. He is likely to retain and expand the Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme framework inherited from the previous government, with a stronger emphasis on nature recovery, net zero land use and public goods payments. He has spoken favourably of devolved decision-making, which could eventually mean more local control over farming support — though the details would need careful scrutiny by farmer and landowner organisations such as the NFU and CLA
The Key Policy Areas That Could Affect Your Farm
Several specific policy areas carry significant implications for farm businesses. On inheritance tax, the Autumn Budget 2024 changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) — which cap relief at £1 million before imposing 20% IHT on farming assets above this threshold — have been deeply controversial. Burnham has not committed to reversing this change, and it is likely to remain on the statute book under any Labour administration. Farm owners with significant asset values will need to plan carefully regardless of who leads the party. On planning, Burnham's background as a passionate advocate for devolution and regional decision-making could lead to a more localised planning system. For farmers, this could mean easier permission for diversification projects such as holiday lets, renewable energy installations and farm-based retail — but it could equally result in more variable outcomes depending on the local planning authority. On environmental policy, a Burnham government would almost certainly maintain Labour's commitment to the 30 by 30 target — protecting 30% of land for nature by 2030 — and to achieving net zero land use. This means greater pressure on farmers to participate in ELM schemes, biodiversity net gain and carbon sequestration agreements. On trade, Burnham has signalled support for closer ties with the EU. A reset of the UK's relationship with European trading partners could open new export markets for British farmers, but could also increase competition from lower-cost EU producers, particularly in sheep, dairy and arable sectors.
Practical Implications for Farm Businesses
Whatever happens in Westminster, the practical reality for farm businesses is that policy uncertainty demands proactive planning. There are several concrete steps worth taking now. First, if you have not already reviewed your farm's inheritance tax exposure in light of the April 2026 APR/BPR changes, you should do so urgently. The new rules will apply to estates where agricultural or business assets exceed £1 million in value, and the implications for farm succession planning can be significant. Gifting, trusts and restructuring may all have a role to play — but these are complex decisions that need specialist land and property advice. Second, consider how your farm could benefit from ELM schemes under the existing or future regime. Whether you are in Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI), Countryside Stewardship or aiming for a Higher Tier agreement, the direction of travel under any Labour leader is towards greater uptake of agri-environment schemes. Understanding your options now puts you in a stronger position for negotiation. Third, if you are considering any diversification or development project — from agricultural buildings to rural tourism — monitor the planning landscape closely. A Burnham government committed to devolution and planning reform could open new opportunities, but local variation may increase. Getting the right professional advice on any application will matter more, not less.
How Foxes Rural Can Help
At Foxes Rural, we have extensive experience advising farming families and rural landowners across England on the full range of issues affected by government policy — including farm business planning, agricultural tenancies, planning applications, ELM scheme advice and estate succession. We work closely with the CLA and NFU and monitor all policy developments that could affect your holding. Whether you need help reviewing your inheritance tax position, negotiating an agri-environment agreement or planning a farm diversification project, our team is here to help. Call us on 01206 481981 or visit our Contact page to speak with one of our rural specialists today.