A government decision to keep a controversial tax has been branded "tone-deaf" by an MP representing a South Somerset constituency.
Adam Dance, the Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil, criticised the government after reports suggested that the Chancellor will not amend or repeal the Family Farm Tax in next month’s Budget.
Mr Dance said: "This tone-deaf decision is a kick in the teeth for Somerset’s farmers, who are the backbone of our rural economy and the heart of our local communities.
"It is utterly foolish for the government to press on with a tax that is causing real harm to family farms, food production, and the countryside we all cherish."
Introduced last year, the Family Farm Tax is said to hit small and medium-sized farms the hardest.
Mr Dance has backed farmers’ calls to reverse this tax since it was first introduced.
He argues that the policy could lead to a lost generation of farmers.
Mr Dance said: "After one of the toughest harvests in years, this Budget was a chance for the Chancellor to show she values British farming — instead, she’s turned her back on it.
"As your local MP, I will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with farmers across Yeovil and South Somerset, fighting to protect the future of family farming and rural livelihoods."
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