LOCAL farmers and rural business owners have met Conservative Shadow Farming and Rural Affairs Minister Robbie Moore to express their concerns about what they call the ‘family farm tax’ and to discuss how to make farming more productive and profitable.

The visit comes after a turbulent 12 months for the sector, during which Mr Moore and the Conservative party have spearheaded the opposition to the Government's ‘family farm tax’, involving changes to agricultural property relief.

The visit, organised by Exmoor farmer and Conservative South West Rural Forum chairman James Wright, sought to bring Westminster’s attention directly to the farmyard.

The discussions focused heavily on the financial strain caused by the tax, and broader concerns regarding the impact of current Government policies on rural traditions and ways of life.

Mr Wright emphasised the need for politicians to step out of London and see the reality on the ground.

He said: “We need now to look to the future.

“There is no countryside without productive and profitable family businesses and farms and putting that agenda back at the heart of Conservative policy-making is an important step.”

The meeting provided an opportunity for local stakeholders to voice their frustrations regarding regulation and the economic outlook for the year ahead.

Exmoor farmer Roger Foxwell, who also attended the session, praised the direct engagement but questioned the absence of other political representatives.

Mr Foxwell said: “It is good to listen to Robbie.

“It is a time of crisis in farming, but where are the Liberal Democrat and Reform farming voices visiting our area?”

Mr Wright said: “The visit was well attended and it is clear that West Somerset’s rural businesses are ready to innovate and grow, but they need a Government that backs them.

“The work to restore that trust and secure a profitable future starts now.”