Episode 10: Child Labour Claims & Clarkson’s Farm in Lockdown

Put your thoughts into the mixThis week on the podcast, we’re tackling two big talking points in farming — one heated debate, and one devastating disease.First up: children on farms. After Farmers Weekly ran a piece comparing farm kids to Victorian chimney sweeps, the backlash was fierce. We're asking are the clickbait headlines distracting from farming’s real health and safety issues? Do farm kids grow up safer and more risk-aware, or should children be kept away from farm work altogether? And is comparing supervised help to slave labour just a step too far?Then, in part two: bovine TB hits Clarkson’s Farm. It’s an old story for farmers, but the Clarkson name has thrust TB into the mainstream. We break down what TB actually is, why farms go into ‘lockdown’, and the devastating financial and emotional toll it takes — with average costs topping £20,000 per farm and some losing hundreds of thousands.We look at the testing system (and its failings), the need for better science, and the ongoing battle over badger culling. With more than 13,000 cattle slaughtered in 2024 — the highest on record — TB remains farming’s most painful, costly and controversial challenge.Two topics, plenty of opinions, and the usual Wilson & Ashley honesty.Thank you to our contributors on this week's episode:Abi CoombesAndrew MeredithCharles GoadbySteve EvansGareth Wyn JonesMaria WarneSophie BellHannah Jacksonhttps://www.fwi.co.uk/business/farm-safety-stars-free-e-learning-course-helps-protect-children-on-farms?fw_source=home_businessJoin our Listener Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1110531760649475/If you’ve got a story, a strong opinion, or an idea for an episode… Slide into the DMs or drop us a voice note — we want to include your thoughts in our conversation. Subscribe now and let’s get into it!@wilsonandashley@rebeccawilsonfarming@charlotteashleyfarmPowered by Ridgeline ClothingWhilst we endeavour to research podcast topics to the best of our ability, we cannot guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all conversations and as such, the podcast does not constitute professional advice.