MP James Wild backs Norfolk farming on his visit to North Farm Livestock
James Wild visited an agricultural business to reaffirm his support for Norfolk farming and talk about issues facing the industry.
North Farm Livestock, a family-run business, is renowned for producing high quality free-range pork and operates across several sites in North West Norfolk, including Anmer, Brancaster, Barmer, and Great Bircham.
With more than 60 members of staff, the farm plays an important role in the local economy and contributes to the UK’s food and drink sector.
During his visit, Mr Wild, the North West Norfolk MP, met Todd Baker, the business manager at North Farm Livestock, to learn more about its commitment to welfare standards and issues facing the sector - including the importance of bio-security measures.
During the visit to Anmer, they also explored the farm's commitment to sustainability through its ‘farming for nature’ initiative, which boosts biodiversity by creating healthier habitats for wildlife.
The visit shortly after the Labour Government’s Budget also gave the pair an opportunity to talk about the impact of National Insurance rises and changes to agricultural property relief, which Mr Wild has spoken against in Parliament.
Frustrations among the farming industry have been well-documented, with inheritance tax set to be charged at 20% on agricultural assets which are worth more than £1million.
Speaking on the visit, Mr Wild said: “Norfolk is home to high-quality agricultural businesses such as North Farm and I welcome the opportunity to see their commitment to high quality produce.
“It is crucial that we back Norfolk farming to safeguarding our food security, look after the environment, and support our rural communities.
“The changes the Government plans to make to agricultural property relief threatens the future of many family farms that produce our food and are custodians of the countryside.
“I am supporting the NFU, CLA, and others in opposing this family farm tax and I have called on Labour to honour the pledge they made before the election and drop this damaging measure.”
