One Maldon District Councillor has expressed grave concerns for local farming in the wake of decisions made in Labour's Autumn Budget.

Cllr Simon Morgan, representing Wickham Bishops and Woodham, spoke at the most recent Maldon District Council meeting on November 14, highlighting his concerns about Labour's decision to introduce a family farm tax.

The changes outlined in the Autumn Budget mean that from April 2026, inherited agricultural assets worth more than £1 million, would be liable to tax at 20%.  

The Country Land and Business Association say around 35%, or 70,000 farms, across the UK could be affected by the tax changes. 

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Morgan said: "Family farm tax will have a detrimental impact on family farmers ability to pass on their farms to the next generation of farmers. 

"Can I ask the leader to agree that the Labour government has committed a shameful betrayal and let down farmers by breaking their promise not to introduce a family farm tax?

"The tax will make British food production harder. Numerous rural and farming organisations, such as the National Farmers Union and Country Land and Business Association have warned that countless farms will be harmed, threatening food security and the rural areas.

"At a time when many farmers in the Maldon District are struggling with soaring costs and energy prices, this sudden tax rise will damage the future of the farms. 

"Can I ask him further to agree to investigate what support the council can do to engage with local farmers and community representatives and also perhaps a list be assembled of those farmers within the district who are likely to be affected by this tax situation?" 

Leader of the Council, Cllr Richard Siddal replied to Cllr Morgan's questions, saying: "I don't think what the government has done is a particularly positive or constructive idea. 

"For us to engage in this situation would put pressure on our economic team which is quite small already, however I would hope that our economic team, if approached by a farm who was in trouble or in a difficult situation, would do our utmost to support them."