51AVÊÓÆµ

Conservative Party conference: Rishi Sunak confirms HS2 Manchester leg to be scrapped

The latest farming news from the Conservative Party conference in Manchester

Alex Black
clock • 1 min read
Rishi Sunak speaking at the Conservative Party conference 2023
Image:

Rishi Sunak speaking at the Conservative Party conference 2023

Live Updates

North East Somerset Conservative MP Jacob Rees Mogg has called for the UK to import 'hormone-injected beef' from Australia and the scrapping of import tariffs on food to open up trade.

The prominent Brexiteer spoke at the 'Rally for Growth' at the Conservative Party conference.Ìý

He said Britain was 'not open to the world', calling for the scrapping of all import tariffs with a particular emphasis on food.

He said: "I want cheaper food. I want hormone-injected beef from Australia. I've eaten beef in Australia, it's delicious. There's nothing wrong with it."

HS2

HS2 was also in focus at the Manchester-based conference, with reports that its Manchester leg was going to be scrapped.

Farmers affected by the construction of the high speed line have raised concerns that all their stress and anxiety would 'be for nothing' if the project was cancelled.

More on Politics

Farmland at risk from rapid solar expansion due to 'inconsistencies' in Environmental Impact Assessments

Farmland at risk from rapid solar expansion due to 'inconsistencies' in Environmental Impact Assessments

The Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) says there needs to be a balance between tackling energy security and the climate crisis, our need for food security and preserving biodiversity and natural habitats

Alex Black
clock 12 January 2026 • 3 min read
'Facts are being ignored' - Countryside in uproar over plans to ban trail hunting

'Facts are being ignored' - Countryside in uproar over plans to ban trail hunting

Before Christmas, the Government announced plans to ban trail hunting as part of its new Animal Welfare Strategy. However, the Countryside Alliance said it will not give up the fight to save the activity which is deep-rooted in tradition and vital to the rural economy

Chris Brayford
clock 10 January 2026 • 7 min read
Government does not recognise farming's contribution, farmers say

Government does not recognise farming's contribution, farmers say

A Farmers Guardian survey has shown almost all farmers do not feel appreciated by the Government

clock 10 January 2026 • 2 min read