Roz Savage MP Supports Local Farmers at National Day of Unity Ahead of Key Meetings on Food, Farming, and Nature

On Saturday, 25th January, Roz Savage MP joined local farmers and residents in Wiltshire for the National Day of Unity at McArthur Glen Designer Outlet Centre in Swindon.

On a bright but chilly morning, the event was part of a nationwide campaign focusing on inheritance tax relief changes affecting agricultural businesses, and the broader challenges facing the farming sector.

The farmers were delighted with the high level of engagement from passing shoppers, many of whom were eager to stop and learn more. Children were excited to climb into the tractor and take part in activities. Passersby also enjoyed free samples of Cadbury’s Dairy Milk chocolate, the milk for which is supplied by Wiltshire farmers.

This visit came just ahead of a meeting between Roz Savage and Mary Creagh, the Nature Minister, to discuss vital issues concerning nature restoration and climate mitigation. It also followed the second reading of the Climate and Nature Bill, sponsored by Roz as a Private Members Bill, which was debated in the House of Commons on Friday, 24th January.

Roz said: “It was great to see so many people engaging with our farmers today, especially the children who just loved the tractor. It was no doubt some light relief for our farmers, who are facing many challenges like inheritance tax changes and rising production costs. These issues are impacting not just farmer’s livelihoods and mental health, but also our national food security. As I head into important discussions with the Nature Minister, I’m committed to ensuring that Wiltshire and Gloucestershire’s farmers have a voice in shaping policies that support both our environment and local food supply.”

The National Day of Unity is part of a wider campaign led by Farmers to Action (FTA) and Together Association, which is pushing for the abolition of inheritance tax for farmers, greater transparency in food pricing, and enhanced national food security.

Ahead of the event, farmer Justin Rogers said: “While we all welcome the combined announcements of the supermarkets to say they oppose this government’s undemocratic imposition of inheritance tax on farmers and family businesses - we know that we all have to stand together to ensure that elected representatives are held accountable. We shall continue to do so, despite a few who seem determined to divide us all. We are looking forward to more discussions with Morrisons and others to ensure A Fair Price for Farmers, A Fair Price for All.”

This event is part of ongoing efforts to engage with the public and local farmers about the vital issues facing the agricultural sector across Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. With continued support from local communities, Roz is doing all she can to ensure that the future of British farming is secure, and that policies reflect the importance of sustainable, local food production.

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