RURAL Labour MPs have their pitchforks out for Sir Keir Starmer – and are plotting a fresh rebellion over his farming taxes in the New Year.
Dozens of backbenchers are understood to be working on plans to water down the raid on agricultural
Rural Labour MPs are plotting a fresh rebellion over his farming taxes in the New YearCredit: Alamy
Dozens of backbenchers are understood to be working on plans to water down the Budget raid on agricultural inheritance tax, pictured embattled PM StarmerCredit: The Times
One rebel told The Sun: “More than 30 of us are prepared to move over this destructive policy – we owe it to our constituents.”
Another MP added: “There is going to be a big push in the New Year on Agricultural Property Relief that could get messy.”
The rural caucus are working to amend Rachel Reeves’ Finance Bill when it returns to .
are furious about the plan to start charging 20 per cent tax on inherited agricultural properties over £1million in a reversal of the exemption that has existed since the 1980s.
The tax grab is estimated to raise £520million by 2029 but has already seen face anger from his own side.
Last week dozens of Labour MPs abstained from a key Budget vote on the issue out of protest, while one was stripped of the whip for voting against it.
While Sir Keir has a big enough majority to ram the unpopular measure through the Commons anyway, it will fuel concerns he is losing control of his backbenchers.
Last year,
Crowds gathered with signs bearing clear messages saying ‘No farmers no food’, ‘Blood on Labour hands’ and ‘Labour war on countryside’.
Police officers were seen keeping the demonstrators away from a conference in Llandudno, north-west Wales.
It came as a the following Tuesday (November 17, 2024) was “blocked” by the National Farmers’ Union, leaving farmers, including , fuming.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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