Farming remains an important part of life here in East Hampshire, both in terms of the local economy but also the contribution to local communities. I maintain regular contact with the local NFU team and local farmers to discuss the issues that impact them and the sector more widely.
According to the local NFU team, more than 75,000 acres across East Hampshire is farmed, employing more than 1,000 people, making it a vital sector for the local economy. The predominant sectors are cattle, sheep and crops.
Financial support for Farmers
Changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) announced in the Autumn Budget (October 30th 2024) mean that many farms with assets over a threshold will now pay inheritance tax at 20 percent from April 2026. APR is an important relief that enables family farms to be passed down through generations. Damian is campaigning for this tax change to be reversed - do join him in opposing the government's decision to cut inheritance tax relief for family farms by signing the petition at: www.stopthefarmtax.com
Damian continues to push the government to rethink its proposals on inheritance tax - see above clip from the recent E-Petition debate on the inheritance tax proposals (10 February 2025).
If you are a local farmer and you have concerns about the impact of this tax on your business, please do get in touch.
Sheep worrying
Attacks on livestock is a significant issue for farmers across the country, and, beyond the emotional impact, it can have substantial financial consequences for their businesses.
And with the rise in dog ownership during the pandemic, there is a need for people to be more aware of how and when to control their dogs when accessing farmland. The Countryside Code provides important guidance for the general public.
Rural Crime
Break ins and vehicle loss remains an on-going issue within rural communities like East Hampshire, and Damian takes part in Hampshire Constabulary's Rural Crime Tactical Board to represent the interests of local residents, alongside other key local stakeholders.
Although crimes should always be reported to the police via the 101 service, the Hampshire Alert initiative is another way for local people to exchange information with the police, to help detect and prevent crime and anti-social behaviour.
