Political row escalates as insiders take aim at protesting farmers
Ministers are facing backlash for allegedly targeting farmers with insults over the tractor tax, with claims that the attacks stem from their lack of support for the Labour party. The inheritance tax dispute took a nasty turn as Downing Street distanced Sir Keir Starmer from the criticism, emphasizing the Prime Minister's respect for the farming industry.
Support for farmers from Tory leader Kemi Badenoch
Despite the heated exchanges, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch showed her solidarity with farmers amid the escalating tensions. In anonymous briefings, Labour MPs were reported to have dismissed farmers' concerns, with one remarking that "These people don’t vote for us anyway."
Debate over inheritance tax reform heats up in political circles
Deputy leader Angela Rayner defended the proposed 20 per cent levy on holdings above £1 million, stating that it is a sensible and fair plan to support smaller estates while enhancing public services. However, the Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary, standing in for Kemi Badenoch, criticized the tax as a punishment for not supporting Labour, similar to measures targeting private school parents and small business owners.
Lib Dems accused of planning similar tax changes
Accusations have also been directed at the Liberal Democrats, with claims that they are considering a tax raid similar to the one proposed by Labour. Despite these allegations, the party has denied any plans to introduce a family farm tax, emphasizing their opposition to such measures.
Farmers remain apprehensive about the potential impact of the proposed inheritance tax changes, fearing the consequences for family farms in the UK.
