The plight of local farmers will be highlighted by local MP Robbie Moore in a major rally against Labour’s Family Farm Tax plans tomorrow (Tuesday, 19th).
Mr Moore met with local farmers over the weekend to discuss the controversial government proposals, which he argues pose a risk to domestic food security and food prices.
Despite Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Environment Secretary Steve Reed previously no changes to agricultural property relief, under Government proposals, more than 100,000 farms across the country will be hit by new inheritance tax laws.
According to the National Farmers Union, Asset-rich but cash-poor farms will have little to no scope to pay inheritance tax bills from farm income, meaning a sale of land and machinery would have to be made to cover the bill.
Government statistics show 17 per cent of UK farms failed to make a profit in 2022/23, while 59 per cent made a profit of less than £50,000.
A petition at stopthefarmtax.com has been set up for people to back British farming and oppose the new tax, while farmers will gather in Westminster on Tuesday in opposition to Labour’s plans.
Speaking after the visit, Robbie Moore MP said:
“It was great to meet again with farmers from across the constituency to hear their concerns regarding the impact Labour’s budget will have on their farming business. All of them are multi-generational family farming businesses, with sons, daughters and grandchildren who are keen to stay in farming. All of them have worked hard all their lives to put good quality food on our plates.
And quite rightly, all of them are deeply worried that Labour’s Family Farm Tax and the other tax increases Labour are bringing forward will not only end family farming but also severely impact the viability of British food production, negatively impacting food security and resulting in food price increases.
My promise to all of you is to work tirelessly to stop Labour’s assault on our farmers, our rural economy and our food security. And I would urge people to sign our petition at stopthefarmtax.com.
A huge thanks to Rob and Helen Goulding for hosting me this afternoon and thank you to all who came along."
Talks continue over future of Settle dairy site
Work begins at former Gargrave care home earmarked for 16 affordable homes
Council accused of 'illusion of listening' over school transport consultation
North Yorkshire councillors to vote on next chief executive
Skipton keeps its place among Britain's 10 happiest places to live
Local care provider celebrates double win at Bradford Care Awards
Veterans selling poppies on Northern trains say support from passengers has been 'heartwarming'
Skipton MP raises concerns over proposed visitor levy and impact on rural tourism
£1million of Keighley Cougars stadium funding redirected to Cavendish Street improvements
Skipton's popular Santa Cruises return for 24th year
Winners revealed for Deliciously Yorkshire Taste Awards
Overnight A59 closures planned as Kex Gill road works reach final stages
Keighley man creates John Lewis-style Christmas advert for charity
Reality TV star Joey Essex to appear at Skipton nightclub
Sandylands Sports Centre to create 44 additional parking spaces
North Yorkshire councillors warned jokes and banter can cause offence under new rules
Nominations open for 2026 Small Business Awards across Ilkley and Keighley
Call for Yorkshire Water to return to public ownership after 335 pollution incidents
Skipton husband-and-wife nursing team launch new therapy services
Details announced for Skipton's Remembrance Sunday parade
