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Written question asked by John Whitby (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 September 2026. It was answered by Stephen Morgan (Labour) on Friday, 18 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Agriculture: Water Supply

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether she plans to include capital grant options for improving on-farm water supply and storage infrastructure in the grant scheme that will incorporate elements of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund from 2027.

Answer

The Government recognises the significant challenges that drought conditions can pose for farmers and growers. As part of the drought support package announced on 14 August 2026, up to £15 million has been made available to support on-farm reservoir construction.

FETF 2026 was the final round of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund in its current form; Defra is reviewing our wider grants offers to ensure they deliver the greatest benefit for farmers, food production and the environment. Decisions on the design and scope of any future offers have not yet been made.

Defra will continue to engage with farmers and industry stakeholders as we develop its future programme.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
28235
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Agriculture Finance Infrastructure Standards Water supply Storage
Contains statistics
Yes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk