Farmers in Lincolnshire are feeling the pinch as the price of red diesel continues to rise, prompting many to reconsider their future crop planting. According to a recent report by BBC Lincolnshire, Harriet White, a farmer near Mablethorpe, shared her family's growing concerns about household expenses, including the nursery fees for their young son.
Red diesel, which is a cheaper fuel option for off-road agricultural vehicles, has seen a significant price increase. Before the recent conflict in the Middle East, it cost around 78p per litre. However, as of Monday, that price had surged to £1.22, according to the price tracking website Boiler Juice. The National Farmers Union (NFU) has noted that these escalating prices are critical for farmers, with White stating, "Red Diesel is putting us in the red."
White expressed her worries about potential food shortages in the coming months due to decreased planting. She explained that if milling wheat production declines, it could lead to less bread available for consumers. The price of red diesel peaked at £1.38 on March 10, following the outbreak of conflict on February 28, although it has seen a slight decrease since a ceasefire was announced on April 8. Despite this, the current prices remain 56% higher than pre-war levels.
In response to these challenges, White has called on the government for assistance. While a government spokesperson mentioned that a 5p fuel duty cut has been extended until September and that red diesel benefits from an 80% tax discount, White remains concerned. She noted that her family is now re-evaluating all household expenditures, including rising nursery costs.
The NFU has also warned that rising costs could lead to increased food prices, as farmers struggle to absorb these additional expenses. Anna Jackson, another farmer from near Scunthorpe, echoed these sentiments, revealing that the price of fertiliser has become unmanageable. Since last year, the cost of a tonne bag of fertiliser has jumped by 14%, from £336 to £390. Jackson, who took over her family business just before Christmas, expressed frustration that the price they receive for their wheat isn't keeping pace with their rising costs.
In light of the financial strain, Jackson mentioned that her business is making significant cuts, including reducing farm insurance, which she finds alarming. Interestingly, she revealed that their play farm and café are now generating more income than traditional farming activities, prompting her to explore further diversification projects. "As a farmer you're a gambler," she said, but she emphasized that she doesn’t want to take unnecessary risks.
As the agricultural community navigates these challenging times, the impact of rising fuel costs and other expenses is a topic of concern for many. How will these changes affect local farmers and, ultimately, the food supply in Lincolnshire?