Family Farm Tax Concerns Raised with MP Charlie Dewhirst

Strategic Insights -

Yorkshire NFU member Rob Meadley brought together local businesses on his farm to meet MP Charlie Dewhirst and express continued concerns over the proposed family farm tax and other issues affecting the sector. Around 12 farm businesses, many of which have been established for over a century, gathered to highlight the devastating impact the proposed tax changes will have on their businesses and the rural economy. The meeting was held at Grange Farm in North Frodingham, East Yorkshire, and inheritance tax, the rising cost of living crisis, and national food security were prominent topics.

Key Takeaways:

  • The proposed family farm tax has significant implications for the businesses in the supply chain, with over 70 businesses relying on the Meadley family farm, including fuel suppliers, soil advisors, and machinery dealers.
  • The tax changes may impact investment in the farm, with Rob Meadley expressing reduced confidence in the future and potentially affecting his ability to pass on the farm to his son.
  • The NFU is working to ensure that the challenges facing farmers and the wider industry are well understood by key stakeholders, including MP Charlie Dewhirst.
  • The MP was shown the importance of the rural economy and the need for a "single voice" to persuade the Government to change course on the proposed tax changes.
  • The NFU remains focused on its work to benefit members' businesses, emphasizing the vital role of family farms in producing food and caring for the countryside.
  • The visit was a valuable opportunity for MP Charlie Dewhirst to hear the views of local farmers and representatives from the food supply chain.

Statistics:

  • Over 70 businesses rely on the Meadley family farm.
  • The Meadley family farm has been in operation since 1909.
  • The farm has five generations of proud farmers.
  • The proposed family farm tax is a major concern for the success of the farm and the wider supply chain.

Sources:

  • Rob Meadley, NFU member and East Yorkshire farmer
  • Charlie Dewhirst, MP for Bridlington and The Wolds
  • Poppy Smith, NFU county adviser