The government has revealed plans to address potential food shortages if farmers follow through on their threat to strike due to the controversial family farm tax. This tax would impose a 20% inheritance tax on farms valued at £1 million or more, sparking outrage among farmers who fear the impact it could have on family farms across the country.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh discussed these plans in an interview with Sir Trevor Phillips on Sky News, emphasizing the importance of ensuring food security in the face of potential disruptions to food production. Farmers are planning a large-scale protest in London to voice their concerns and demonstrate the potential consequences of the proposed tax.
Despite the looming threat of empty supermarket shelves and panic-buying reminiscent of the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, Haigh assured the public that the government has contingency plans in place to maintain food security. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) will outline these plans for the winter months to address any potential disruptions in food supply chains.
The farmers’ leader, Gareth Wyn Jones, criticized Prime Minister Keir Starmer for avoiding direct engagement with farmers and failing to address their concerns during a recent speech in Wales. Jones, a farmer from North Wales and a popular YouTuber, accused Starmer of neglecting the farming community in his defense of the Budget and tax measures proposed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
In response to the farmers’ concerns, Haigh emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector while maintaining a fair and proportionate tax system. She acknowledged the challenges faced by farmers and their families, highlighting the importance of productive dialogue between the government and farming representatives to find a mutually beneficial solution.
National Farmers’ Union (NFU) President Tom Bradshaw echoed these sentiments, expressing his opposition to withholding produce from supermarkets as a form of protest. Bradshaw emphasized the need for constructive engagement between farmers and the government to address the underlying issues causing unrest within the farming community.
Bradshaw pointed out the potential inflationary impact of the Budget on food production, citing increases in national insurance and the national living wage as factors driving up food prices. He highlighted the importance of maintaining investment in food production to ensure long-term food security and stability in the UK.
Overall, the government’s response to the farmers’ tax strike concerns underscores the importance of open communication and collaboration between all stakeholders to address key issues affecting the agricultural sector. By prioritizing food security and engaging in meaningful dialogue, the government aims to find a balanced solution that supports farmers while ensuring a fair and sustainable tax system for all.
