Information for YFC members following the Budget announcements

Announcements made in the autumn Budget, including tax changes and wage increases, have understandably caused concern among young farmers.

These significant changes will impact the next generation of farmers. NFYFC’s YFC AGRI Chair has spoken out on this topic with a statement that was shared with the media, Government and MPs. Read the statement here.

We understand the frustration felt by young farmers. NFYFC is working with many industry and government groups at the highest levels, contacting MPs, gathering information from the YFC AGRI group and NFYFC has also been a co-signatory on open letters to the Treasury from MPs.

YFC members also took part in two events in London on the 19 November. One was an NFU lobby event, which involved bringing NFU members to London for meetings with their MPs. The other was a Rally, held on the same day by a group of farmers, including Olly Harrison from Merseyside. This was an independently coordinated rally and was not organised by the NFU or NFYFC.

More events are planned by different organisers and many are taking place in local areas.

Other positive actions YFC members can take:

• Ask to meet your own MP and tell them what the budget changes would mean to you, your family, your farm and your future. Get advice on lobbying in this helpful guide.
• Ask your County Chair or Area Chair to write to your local MP. Find your local MP.
• Work with your County Federation to organise a local discussion event for members in your county involving a local MP, a land agent and a tax advisor and invite other farming organisations too.
• Sign the NFU petition to overturn the family farm tax.

We understand the Budget announcements may have caused concern for you and your family. If you are struggling and need to talk with someone, please contact The Farming Community Network on 03000 111 999 or see our signposting for support section.

Please contact sarah.palmer@nfyfc.org.uk for more information.