Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding family farms by voting against Budget Resolution No. 50 on Tuesday 2 December.
The proposal sought to limit agricultural and business property reliefs under inheritance tax, a move believed by many farming and rural organisations to place an unfair burden on rural communities and jeopardise the future of family farming.
Julian has been a consistent and vocal advocate for protecting family farms from disproportionate tax changes. Since the last Budget, Julian has:
- Voted in support of the Official Opposition’s motion calling for this tax to be reversed.
- Co-signed a cross-party letter to the Chancellor, warning that proposed changes to inheritance tax reliefs could have devastating consequences for farming families and rural businesses.
- Used Prime Minister’s Questions to call for a compromise solution, highlighting the vital role family farms play in food security and rural economies.
Speaking after the vote, Julian said, "Family farms are the backbone of our rural communities. These proposals risk undermining generations of hard work and stewardship. I have consistently argued for a fair and practical approach to inheritance tax that safeguards family farms, and my recent vote reflects that commitment."
