Drought pressure on UK farms: England and Wales have just seen their driest July on record, with drought now covering more than half of England and farmers warning of shrinking harvests and food shortages as grass growth stalls and some growers resort to slurry tankers for water. Livestock health and welfare row (NI): A Stormont agriculture committee is set to scrutinise the shooting of 51 cattle in Co Tyrone, with an NI MP calling it “one of the biggest DAERA scandals” and pushing for a fully independent public inquiry. Bluetongue surge: Cases are accelerating across England and Wales, prompting calls for stronger disease defences and vaccination checks for sheep and cattle. Solar farm fights (England): County Durham planners backed a large solar farm despite local opposition, while Buckinghamshire faces fresh consultation over another ground-mounted scheme amid concerns about cumulative impacts on communities and farmland. Regenerative barley push: HEINEKEN UK has launched a regenerative malting barley programme paying farmers a premium to scale soil-improving practices. Food and drink spotlight: Great Taste Awards 2026 named multiple UK producers, including Mid Cheshire winners, while Love Lamb Week returns (1–7 Sept) to promote UK lamb. Transport and trade shock (animals): Brittany Ferries says it will stop live animal transport from September, triggering fresh pressure on livestock export capacity.