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Labour MP Loses Whip After Commons Approves Farm Inheritance Tax Changes

Farm leaders and rural Labour MPs are pressing for a review of the overhaul.

Overview

  • MPs voted 327–182 to back reforms that introduce a 20% rate on agricultural and business assets above £1 million from April, with a new £1 million APR/business allowance transferable between spouses and civil partners.
  • Dozens of Labour MPs abstained following a National Farmers' Union plea, while Penrith and Solway MP Markus Campbell-Savours was the sole Labour vote against the measure.
  • Campbell-Savours was informed by Chief Whip Jonathan Reynolds that he had been suspended from the parliamentary party after his rebellion.
  • Treasury minister James Murray defended the plan as a fair way forward that maintains generous reliefs while raising revenue, and the government says around 500 estates a year will be affected.
  • Farming groups warn the so‑called family farm tax could force asset‑rich, cash‑poor farms to sell land, and they continue protests and lobbying for changes or a targeted review.