Dear all,
This month’s Budget posed many challenges that will impact families, farmers, local businesses, and schools across our community. Many of the measures were both unnecessary and deeply unfair and I’ll be working hard to challenge them in Parliament to ensure that Sevenoaks, Swanley and the Dartford villages voice is heard.
One of the most troubling aspects was Labour’s proposed tax on family farms by reducing inheritance tax relief. Over the last few weeks, I have met with some of our farmers locally to discuss the impact of the Budget announcement, and I saw many of them again on the day of national protest against the measures. In uncertain times, we should strengthen domestic food production, not undermine it. Farming families are the backbone of our food supply, yet this tax risks driving many out of the industry, leaving us dependent on imports and vulnerable to global disruptions. Over time, this could permanently reduce productive farmland, altering our countryside. Once that land is lost, it is gone for good.
I have also been in touch with a number of our small businesses. From hairdressers and cafes to pubs and local shops, all are facing the consequences of Labour’s plan to increase employer National Insurance contributions. For many, this increase will make hiring new staff impossible, and some may even have to consider scaling back operations just to stay afloat or lower future wage increases.
Sevenoaks deserves a Budget that supports its residents rather than burdens them, and I will continue to stand up everyone in our community so that Labour understands the true cost of these policies on communities like ours.
If there is anything I can do to support you, your family or your business, please do email [email protected]. I will always do all I can to help.
Laura Trott
MP for Sevenoaks and SwanleyTo see Laura's newsletter in full click here