Sir Keir Starmer faced criticism for leaving the Welsh Labour conference in Llandudno through the back door to avoid angry farmers protesting outside. The farmers were upset about the controversial changes to inheritance tax, known as “the family farm tax,” which could impact two-thirds of farmers. They gathered outside the conference venue, expressing their frustrations.
Gareth Wyn Jones, a farmer and YouTuber, called out the prime minister for not addressing the crowd directly and accused him of being disrespectful. He highlighted the importance of Sir Keir listening to the people who voted for him and engaging with their concerns.
Despite claims that the exit was chosen because of Sir Keir’s official car location, many farmers felt ignored as the prime minister did not engage with them. The protesters were demonstrating against the inheritance tax changes that could force families to sell off or break up their farms.
The protest in Llandudno was just the beginning, as a larger demonstration involving thousands of farmers is planned in Whitehall. The farmers are deeply concerned about the impact of the inheritance tax changes and other measures on the future of farming in Britain. They feel that the government is not considering the broader implications of their policies on rural communities.
Farmers have threatened to go on strike, highlighting the challenges they face in producing food for the nation. They argue that the government should be supporting them rather than imposing further obstacles. The changes in inheritance tax could lead to increased food prices, making it difficult for many people to access healthy British produce.
Mr. Wyn Jones disputed the government’s claim that only 500 farming estates would be affected by the inheritance tax changes, emphasizing that many farmers are elderly and have not planned for inheritance tax on their properties. He stressed the need for government support and understanding of the challenges faced by the farming community.
The farmers are calling on Sir Keir to reconsider the approach to farming and rural communities, urging him to prioritize their concerns. The protests signal growing anger and frustration within the farming sector, with many feeling that their livelihoods are under threat. It is essential for policymakers to engage with farmers and address their grievances to ensure a sustainable future for agriculture in Britain.
