The Latest Breaking News from Steve Reed

A speech by Steve Reed will outline measures to boost sector profits in the wake of protests against the Government by farmers.

Steve Reed to announce focus on making farming ‘more profitable and sustainable’ at Oxford Farming Conference

Public fury swelled yet again at water companies’ worsening records on sewage as firms announced steep hikes to consumer bills.

A Cornwall MP called for a “total ban on water bill rises” while sewage threatens Christmas-themed Santa swims and surfing events

The Rural Affairs Secretary took questions about changes to inheritance tax reliefs in the Commons.

Consumer groups said the bill rises will be more than many households can afford, as campaigners accused Ofwat of caving to pressure from firms.

Regulators have allowed water firms to raise bills significantly over the next five years. PA news agency asks why, and explains what happens next.

‘Complete reset’ of water industry needed in face of poor service, pollution and leaks, says Steve Reed

Thousands of farmers travelled to London on November 19 to protest the new government’s first budget and its imposition of new inheritance tax rules. Nearly a month later, on December 12, there was another protest, this time with more tractors, fewer celebrities, and only a tiny fraction of the media…

The Wildlife Trusts and WWF are among numerous bodies who have signed a letter to Environment Secretary Steve Reed raising their concerns.

Every local area will follow the same rules when the changes take effect from March