Farmers Protest Labour’s Tax Raid on NFU Battle Bus
Alison Ratcliffe, a 59-year-old farmer, is among the 1,600 NFU members who gathered to lobby MPs against Labour’s policy to impose inheritance tax on some farms. She passionately shared her concerns with Forest of Dean MP Matt Bishop, highlighting the financial burden this tax would place on farming families.
Alison shared heartbreaking stories of fellow farmers who have faced extreme stress due to the impending tax changes. One farmer even contemplated ending his life to avoid burdening his family with the hefty inheritance tax bill. These stories shed light on the real struggles that farmers are facing in the wake of this decision.
The NFU organized a mass lobby event where farmers from across the country gathered to make their voices heard. Despite the early morning start and long journey to London, these farmers were determined to fight for their livelihoods. They engaged in conversations about various challenges in the farming industry, from rising animal feed prices to the impact of the inheritance tax on family farms.
NFU officials briefed the farmers before they met with MPs, urging them to share their stories and concerns. The farmers’ resilience and determination were evident as they faced long queues and inclement weather to speak directly to their representatives. Some farmers, like Charles Day and the Davidson-Smith family, met with MPs to discuss the implications of the tax changes on their farms.
As the protest unfolded in Westminster, farmers expressed their disappointment and frustration with the government’s decision. Many felt betrayed and abandoned, unsure of how they would be able to pass on their farms to the next generation. The uncertainty and financial strain caused by the inheritance tax have left many farmers feeling helpless and undervalued.
Despite the challenges they face, farmers like John Collins and Alison Ratcliffe remain hopeful that their voices will be heard. They understand the importance of advocating for their livelihoods and the future of farming in the UK. As they boarded the NFU bus back to Cirencester, they knew that the battle was far from over.
The fight against Labour’s tax raid on NFU members continues, with farmers determined to protect their way of life and preserve their farms for future generations. The unity and resilience displayed by these farmers serve as a testament to their unwavering commitment to agriculture and rural communities. Their stories deserve to be heard, and their concerns addressed to ensure a sustainable future for British farming.
