South West political engagement continues
An update of recent MP meetings in the region.
Our political engagement in the south west has continued in recent months, with the regional team hosting a number of round table meetings with local MPs and our members. These meetings are a valuable asset in allowing MPs to really see the impact of government decisions on farms within their constituencies, and for members to have constructive conversations about the challenges being faced.
Our first meeting was with Danny Kruger, the Conservative MP for East Wiltshire, and this was followed shortly after by a meeting with Sir Mel Stride MP, the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer and MP for Central Devon.
During both meetings we expressed the pressures facing family farms both nationally and in their individual constituencies. Topics discussed included the potential economic consequences of proposed changes to Inheritance Tax and reliefs such as Agricultural and Business Property Relief (APR/BPR), and ongoing concerns about the rollout and complexity of the Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI).
Ann Maidment, Regional Director in the South West, comments: “With the rural economy facing a number of challenges, these meetings have been extremely timely. They are a valuable opportunity allowing MPs to really see the impact of government decisions on farms within their constituencies, and ensure the rural voice is heard.”
Following our meeting in Central Devon, Sir Mel Stride said: “Our family farms are the backbone of the countryside – not only producing food, but also shaping our landscape, heritage and rural communities. As Shadow Chancellor, I’m listening closely and will ensure the concerns of rural communities are heard in Westminster."
Danny Kruger wrote in his update following the visit: "Farming is a difficult business, and this has not been helped by this Government's decisions around inheritance tax and family businesses. We are already seeing farms being split and sold due to these changes, with the Treasury remaining uninterested in discussing any compromises. I will continue to work with our farmers and producers to ensure they are treated better."
