Derbyshire farmer says cash for agricultural sector is ‘spin’

But Ms Wheelton, who is also an independent councillor in South Derbyshire, said the funding was “nothing new”.

“I’m quite surprised by [the announcement],” she said.

“It’s always welcome when people talk about money and investment but if I’m honest, this is just spin.

“The Government say they’ve invested £343 million pounds well that’s because they only pay farmers what they owe us for the last 12 months in December for environmental work and through the Basic Payment Scheme.

“This is overdue money for farmers for services already delivered.

“It’s good we’re having the conversation about farming but the total budget for farming of £5bn is the same budget that was under the last government so there is no increase.”