Graham Stuart has heard how Labour’s plans for a Family Farm Tax threatens to take opportunities from the next generation of farmers in Beverley and Holderness.
Graham visited Bygot House Farm, near Cherry Burton, where he met owners Rebecca and Ian Webb, who manage a diverse farming business that includes pigs and combinable crops such as wheat, oats, and barley.
During their discussions, Graham learned that their son Richard, 9, is already playing a key role in daily farming life. Richard has been given his own calves to rear and has been learning how to manage the finances of caring for and selling livestock.
His parents are concerned that as a result of Labour’s ill-thought-out plans for a Family Farm Tax, due to be introduced in April 2026, Richard could be left with a bill of hundreds of thousands of pounds which could prevent him from taking ownership of the farm and potentially end generations of family business.
Graham explained that he shares their concerns and will continue to oppose Labour’s plans at every opportunity.
In the Autumn Budget, the Chancellor announced a significant change to Agricultural Property Relief, imposing a 20% tax on the value of land exceeding £1 million; known by many as a Family Farm Tax. By the Government’s own estimates, this could result in one farm closing in every rural constituency each year.
He has already been a strong voice for farmers locally. In response to the proposed tax, he launched a petition to allow residents of Beverley and Holderness to express their support for local farmers and their opposition to the Family Farm Tax. The petition has received over 1,000 signatures, reflecting strong community backing.
In Westminster, Graham has actively worked to overturn the Government’s plans for the Family Farm Tax. He has participated in two farmers’ marches, demonstrating his solidarity with the agricultural community, and hosted a roundtable discussion with farmers to gain deeper insights into how these measures would affect their livelihoods. He also led a cross-party group of MPs from across the UK to explain to the minister why an urgent rethink is needed.
Graham Stuart, Member of Parliament for Beverley and Holderness, commented, “Labour’s Family Farm Tax will be a disaster on so many levels, robbing the next generation of farmers like Richard of the opportunity to continue the business that has been in his family for generations. That’s why I am pushing the government to think again and reverse its plans for a Family Farm Tax before the damage is done. I wish there was more I could do but I promise to fight for the people of Beverley and Holderness – whether it be the 1000 people who have signed my petition, or the farmers who are worried what this will mean for their way of life.”
Rebecca Webb, owner of Bygot House Farm, added, "It was great to welcome Graham to the farm and show him how we are adapting our business to deal with the added pressures we are facing as a result of this Government’s decisions. His support and understanding of our challenges are greatly appreciated, and we are very pleased that he will continue to be a strong voice for us and all farmers across Beverley and Holderness at Westminster."
