From field to policy

Members of the CLA recently met with Conservative MP for Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge, Sir Gavin Williamson MP to discuss the opportunities and challenges that they have been facing in their businesses and rural communities.

The discussions were varied from the hot topic, Inheritance Tax, to obstacles with planning permission and rural crime.

Sir Gavin commented "I was delighted to meet with Staffordshire CLA members to discuss their understandable concerns regarding punitive policies that are having a detrimental impact on family farms and estates.

"Changes to Inheritance Tax, Business Property Relief, and Agricultural Property Relief are making farming unviable for so many and threatening food security at a crucial time in our geopolitics.

"I urge the Government to reverse these damaging policies and will be doing all I can to pressure Ministers to give farming in Staffordshire and across the UK a fighting chance.

"The roundtable was also a useful opportunity to discuss concerns regarding rural crime which blights farmers and those who enjoy our countryside. I am committed to engaging with Staffordshire Police to address these very important issues and will do all I can to reduce the impact of rural crime."

Natalie Oakes, Country Land and Business Association Midlands Communications Manager said “The meeting with Sir Gavin was highly constructive, offering a valuable opportunity for our members to engage directly with him.

“We had a discussion that addressed topics such as Inheritance Tax changes, planning reform and the unexpected closure of farming schemes, covering both the challenges and opportunities facing our rural communities.”

The CLA Midlands team are working hard to organise meetings across the region with MPs to ensure rural voices are heard. If you would be interested in hosting a meeting, please do get in touch with CLA Midlands Communications Manager, Natalie Oakes.