MP for Chichester slams Government for "tone deaf" refusal to reverse family farm tax

MP for Chichester, Jess Brown-Fuller, has slammed the Government for refusing to listen to farmers, following reports that the Chancellor does not plan to amend or repeal the damaging Family Farm Tax in next month’s Budget.  

Jess has supported the rural community in their campaign to reverse this tax since it was first introduced last year. Despite being warned that their policy could lead to a lost generation of farmers, the Government has not budged.  

Jess recently met with the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) to discuss several issues affecting farmers in Chichester. In particular, the NFU raised concerns about the Fruit and Vegetable Scheme, a legacy of EU membership, which is ending this December without a replacement. The impact on Chichester’s soft fruit farmers will be significant, with the funding worth £40 million to the horticulture sector nationally.  

Jess said:  

“This tone-deaf decision is a kick in the teeth for British farmers in West Sussex, who are the backbone of our rural community. 

“It is foolish for the Government to continue with this tax, which is causing immense damage to farmers, food production and environmental stewardship. This comes as our horticultural industry in Chichester is set lose out on the Fruit and Vegetables Aid Scheme, with no obvious plans forthcoming to mitigate these cuts. 

“This is a missed opportunity for the Chancellor to use the Budget to show her support and finally protect family farms after one of the worst harvests on record.” 

Jess with representatives from the NFU