McArthur and Macdonald respond to UK government refusal to reverse family farm tax

Orkney’s MSP, Liam McArthur, and Emma Macdonald, Scottish Liberal Democrat Candidate for Shetland, have today responded to reports that the UK government will not amend or repeal the Family Farm Tax in the upcoming budget.  

Commenting on the announcement, Mr McArthur said:  

“Agriculture is the backbone of rural and island communities and economies such as Orkney. Those working in the sector here in Orkney have been very clear that this tax will damage existing businesses and the future of farming in the islands. 

“I simply cannot understand why the Chancellor has refused to rethink these proposals and at least offer some mitigation in the way they will apply in practice. Completely ignoring the concerns of farmers and crofters across the UK sends an atrocious message about the value this government attaches to the sector. 

“This decision will be harmful to farmers, food production as well as environmental stewardship. As such, the consequences will be widely felt and long-lasting.”

Ms Macdonald said:  

“This poorly considered decision is a real blow for farmers and crofters across Shetland, who have kept our rural communities going through thick and thin.  

“I’m deeply disappointed that the Government has once again turned a deaf ear to those on the ground. They seem more interested in balancing spreadsheets than supporting the people who put food on our tables.

“This was a golden opportunity for the Chancellor to throw farmers a lifeline – instead, she has thrown them under a bus.”