Our work to improve inspections and make penalties proportionate
 
  To many, cross compliance is something of a mystery. I want to explain what it is, why it’s important and what we are doing to improve it.
 
        Andy King has worked at Rural Payments Agency since 2018. He leads its Land Management, Productivity and Grants directorate. His previous experience includes leadership roles in customer, regulatory and enforcement operations at Environment Agency, Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency and the Home Office.
 
  To many, cross compliance is something of a mystery. I want to explain what it is, why it’s important and what we are doing to improve it.
This blog is managed by Defra’s Farming and Countryside Programme (FCP).
On this blog, we explain the reforms to agricultural policy in England.
We share what we’re working on, what we’re learning and how you can get involved.

Say hello to the team this this week on 31 October at Borderway Agri Expo, Rosehill, Carlisle.
Next week, the team will be at the the following events:
5 November Northern Farming Conference, Hexham, Northumberland
5 November Herefordshire Rural Business Hub, Hereford, Herefordshire
5 November AgriFest South West, Westpoint, Exeter
7-8 November ASAO Conference, Harrogate, North Yorkshire
You can find us at these agricultural shows and conferences in 2025 and 2026.

The Farming Advice Service (FAS) provides free, confidential advice to farmers and advisers.
Catchment Sensitive Farming (CSF) helps farmers in England protect water, air and soil. CSF advisers can provide advice on best practices and specific actions that will benefit your farm business and the environment.
We’ve compiled a list of organisations offering wellbeing support to those in the farming community.