During today’s Environmental Audit Committee session, I asked the President of the National Farmers’ Union, Minette Batters, on her thoughts about the potential consequences of commodifying our farmland and natural capital. To illustrate my concerns, I pointed to a potential scenario where our lush countryside’s natural capital is sold on a highly complex global market, potentially divorced from its intended purpose.

Minette shared my concerns, and told the Committee that the commodification of our farmland is happening in real time, with large swathes of land being bought up for sustainability requirements and businesses that aren’t based in the UK.

The President also emphasised the need to protect our grassland, which is not being seen for its true value, as it is where a large majority of our carbon is being sequestered.

Watch my question and Minette’s response below.