Swann Welcomes Progress on Family Farm Tax

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has welcomed the government’s adjustments to the tax-free allowance for family farms, describing the move as a partial victory brought about by persistent, collective campaigning across Northern Ireland and Westminster.

Speaking at the Ulster Unionist Party conference, the South Antrim MP reflected on the progress made since raising the issue at the previous year's conference, paying tribute to the local agricultural community who campaigned to protect family farms and the rural economy.

In his conference address, Robin Swann MP said:

"It would be remiss of me not to mention that last year at conference, I stood here and talked about the work we were doing to fight the Family Farm Tax and stand up for our rural communities. I am very glad to say that this year, we can look back on a victory, albeit a partial victory, with more still to do.

"Following months of relentless, combined pressure in Westminster and right across our countryside, the Government finally listened and adjusted the tax-free allowance. That means the vast majority of our local family farms are now safe from being taxed out of existence.

"That did not happen by accident. Huge credit must go to our local farming families, the Ulster Farmers' Union, and everyone who refused to stay quiet and made their voices heard. By standing together, we protected our rural way of life and ensured the next generation can keep doing what they do best and what their families have done for generations."