A review into farm inspections in England commissioned by Defra Secretary Michael Gove, and led by Dame Glenys Stacey, has recommended that government set up an independent body to regulate farms and implement government policy.

It would mean a major Defra shake-up, with all inspections falling to one organisation, rather than the current system where up to five Defra bodies and local authorities have a remit to undertake checks on farms. The review does not extend to other parts of the UK, although the same scenarios exist elsewhere.

The proposal is that the new body would be given a wide range of statutory powers, would be part-funded by a farmer levy, and would provide advice to farmers as well as undertake enforcement work.

Where an individual chooses not to comply with a simple requirement, the review proposes the use of fixed penalty notices. Where rules are being disregarded, one option suggested is that farmers will be unable to send produce to market. The ultimate sanction could be a heavy fine, to ensure no economic gains are made from non-compliance.

However, the review also makes clear that recognition should be given to farmers who are in farm assurance schemes, and have a strong record of compliance – they could face a lower regulatory burden.

Other ways of reducing the regulatory burden include the increased use of technology such as satellite imagery to help monitor compliance in various areas, including how slurry is managed. The review also proposes that all land should have a registered keeper, which clearly places the onus of responsibility for the maintenance of land and associated environment with an individual farmer. Government is expected to respond to the review in the new year.