UK farming union presidents have expressed profound dissatisfaction with recent policy changes regarding Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR), emphasizing the widespread impact on farmers across Britain. The policy, criticized for its lack of consultation and reliance on inaccurate data, has sparked considerable unrest within the agricultural community. The changes to APR and BPR, described as a betrayal of earlier promises, have compounded challenges faced by farmers, including adverse weather conditions and policy shifts.
Amidst these challenges, the Shadow Defra Secretary has stated Labour's stance of not intending to alter APR. The agricultural sector, already strained by inflation and budgetary decisions, faces increased production costs, which are likely to affect consumer prices significantly. The National Farmers Union (NFU) and other farming unions are actively engaging with MPs to address the concerns surrounding APR and BPR, highlighting the policy's detrimental effects on farming families and food security in Britain.
The Treasury's approach to modifying APR and BPR has been criticized for potentially targeting the wrong demographic, inadvertently affecting commercial farm businesses. The NFU has estimated that 75% of these businesses could be adversely impacted, risking the fragmentation of farms and undermining national food security. The policy has faced opposition for its perceived lack of foundation and consultation, prompting a call for immediate reevaluation to mitigate its human and economic impacts.
Farmers and supporters are urged to share their personal stories with MPs, emphasizing the policy's implications for their livelihoods and the broader agricultural landscape. The NFU continues to advocate for the agricultural community, stressing the importance of sustained engagement and public support to challenge the policy changes. The union's commitment to resisting the policy reflects a broader determination within the farming community to safeguard the future of British agriculture.
Source: NFU