David Chadwick, MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, has raised concerns over the future of funding for the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC).

The NFYFC, one of the UK’s largest rural youth organisations, represents more than 580 clubs and 28,000 members aged 10 to 28. It provides training, educational opportunities, and community engagement, helping young people develop skills and experience in farming and rural life.

Mr Chadwick has criticised the UK Government for allocating just £30,000 to the organisation for 2025/26 and has warned that further funding could be at risk. He has tabled an Early Day Motion (EDM) in Parliament calling on ministers to reconsider, which has received cross-party backing.

But the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has responded by stating that no decisions have been made regarding future funding.

“It is a disgrace that the end of the NFYFC grant is even being considered,” said Mr Chadwick.

“This funding underpins the opportunities, training, and support that our young farmers rely on. Removing it would not only undermine the future of British farming but also jeopardise NFYFC’s vital relationship with Defra.

“This Labour Government seems intent on waging a war on the countryside driven by ideology; they need to wake up and realise if they want economic growth, they need to support rural communities, not pull the rug out from under them.”

A Defra spokesperson said: “No decisions on funding have been made yet and to suggest otherwise is false.

“We’ve provided £30,000 to support the important work of the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs in the 2025/2026 financial year.

“We are working with the farmers to build a more profitable farming system with food production at its core and helps restore nature in an uncertain world.”