In a significant development for England’s tenanted farming sector following a key recommendation of the 2022 Rock Review, on 26 September 2025 Defra appointed Alan Laidlaw as the country’s first Tenant Farming Commissioner. The Commissioner’s focus is on improving relationships between tenant farmers, landlords, and agents, as well as promoting fair and transparent conduct within the farming sector.
Alan Laidlaw brings over 25 years of experience in agriculture and land management, including senior roles at the Crown Estate and the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland.
The role of the commissioner
The Commissioner’s role is non-statutory, meaning he does not have legal enforcement powers. The role is focused on promoting the standards of conduct set out in the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Code of Practice. This includes:
- Investigating complaints about poor conduct or breaches of the Code of Practice
- Tracking trends in landlord and tenant relations, including how disputes are resolved
- Offering impartial guidance and signposting professional advice
- Reporting regularly to Defra and the Farm Tenancy Forum on tenant and landlord relations
- Promoting collaboration and transparency across the sector and strengthening relationships between tenants, landlords, and advisers
What this means for tenant farmers and landowners
For tenant farmers, the Commissioner offers a new avenue to raise concerns confidentially and seek guidance on best practice. For landlords and agents, it’s an opportunity to engage proactively with the Code of Practice and avoid reputational risk and potential disputes. This is seen as a significant step toward improving fairness and accountability for both sides of the tenancy relationship.
We recommend:
- Reviewing tenancy agreements in light of the Code of Practice
- Seeking early advice if you have concerns about communications or fairness
- Engaging with the Commissioner’s office to contribute to future guidance
- Reading the Code of Practice
Speak to a specialist
Contact our agriculture team through or our online form or call us on 0345 209 1000
Written by Gemma Staddon – Paralegal
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