Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, has expressed grave concerns about the challenges facing farmers across the constituency following numerous visits, including to Mark Glover's Black Barn Farm in Grateley and T H White Pro Agri in Stockbridge.
During these visits, farmers and agricultural businesses raised their concerns over the Government’s decision on inheritance tax for farmers, as well as the impact of increases in employer national insurance contributions. Many expressed growing uncertainty about the future of British farming and the pressures they are facing in continuing to grow our food sustainably.
Speaking on the issue, Caroline Nokes MP said: “Farming is the backbone of our rural economy, providing food security, protecting the environment, and managing our landscapes. However, what I have heard firsthand from local farmers is that they face real and immediate challenges, and uncertainty within the sector is a growing concern. It is vital that we work towards a secure future for British agriculture.”
In the last few weeks, Caroline Nokes met the NFU in Parliament to discuss what the problems facing the farming sector were, and to listen to their practical suggestions as to how changes could be made to provide greater certainty for the sector. Caroline has already highlighted to the Chancellor what some of those suggestions are and is making sure the voices of farmers across the Romsey and Southampton North constituency are heard at the highest level.
Ms. Nokes emphasised the importance of financial stability and long-term policy certainty to support farmers in making key investments and business decisions. The future viability of many small and medium-sized farms is under threat unless succession planning can be done with confidence. It is already hard enough to convince the next generation to continue longstanding family farming traditions without added financial pressure.
Farmers also highlighted the cost of compliance and expressed frustration at regulatory uncertainty that makes it difficult to plan for the future.
“I want to ensure farmers in Romsey and Southampton North, and across the country, have the support and stability they need to continue their essential work. Their role in our economy, environment, and local communities cannot be overstated, and I will continue to press the Chancellor to make sure British farming has a future.” Ms. Nokes added.
