Thousands of people are leaving the farming industry each year, according to a new report from the Countryside Agency.

However, the report also says that in rural England as a whole there are one million enterprises and also more businesses per head of population than urban areas.

Forum Response: Countryside Agency

Richard Wakeford, chief executive of the Countryside Agency, said: "The countryside is far from being a picture postcard place with a mainly economy. It is a hive of economic activity that plays a major part in driving the national economy.

"Our report looks at the nature and the needs of rural economies. It shows that many rural people are extremely resourceful at using their skills.

There is a high level of self-employment and more than half of all new business start-ups are by people who have moved into the countryside. Many people juggle different part-time jobs at once.

"Despite such enterprise, too many people struggle to earn a decent living. This cause of disadvantage and social exclusion can be reduced, by well-informed government interventions. Our report shows that many rural economies are dynamic.

"If more of rural England is to share the rewards of this enterprising culture then we need to work together with partner organisations, local and national government to raise marketable skill levels among rural people, and help them access more rewarding work through training and other support; ensure there is adequate business support and advice for existing rural businesses.

"[We should] develop ways to raise household disposable income by more joined-up working between employers, benefits and pensions offices; develop a favourable environment for new small business start up and job creation; and maintain and improve rural environments, which can in turn attract new investment.

"These are just some of the stepping stones towards a healthier future for our countryside."

Forum Response: Royal Agricultural Society

Richard Sanders, director of communications at the Royal Agricultural Society, told ePolitix.com: "The RASE remains deeply concerned that the government is failing to address a growing crisis of economic sustainability in UK farming.

"Despite its perceived small contribution to GDP, farming produces nearly 80 per cent of the rural landscape and provides the backdrop for any other form of rural economy. It also produces much of the raw material for the UK's extensive processing sector.

"Without profit from farming no other rural sustainability targets can be achieved. Continuing low commodity prices, falling subsidies and tough UK legislation are all hitting economic performance. Bankrupt farmers do not make the best environment and biodiversity guardians."