NFU calls for landlord assistance - commercial mortgages

20 September 2007

Investors with agricultural commercial mortgages have been asked by the National Farmers'' Union to be lenient on their tenants as the industry comes to terms with another foot and mouth outbreak.

The NFU has said that many farmers are facing financial difficulties because of the movement restrictions that have been features of recent outbreaks.

As a result, many could find themselves unable to pay rent, leading to the NFU encouraging landlords and banks to provide assistance as well as urging tenants themselves to be open about their problems.

"Communication is key during this difficult time," said NFU national tenants'' spokesperson Peter Crozier, according to thisisCheshire.co.uk.

"If the rent is going to be tight because livestock have not been sold as a result of market closures, talk to your bank manager and landlord as soon as possible and explain the situation to them.

"Don''t wait for them to phone or write to you before taking action," Mr Crozier added.

The news comes as a new foot and mouth control zone is imposed around Solihull pending further tests into a new potential outbreak.