Chris pledges to listen to rural concerns

Chris Kane, MP for Stirling and Strathallan, met with local representatives of the National Farmer’s Union Scotland (NFUS) on 6th December at Argaty Farm, Doune.

They discussed various issues concerning farming, including changes proposed in the recent budget – economic pressures, labour shortages and uncertainty about government support. Chris offered to highlight these issues to government ministers and made a strong commitment to raise key questions in relation to farming during his time as the local MP.

Chris has pledged to have continuous meetings with the NFU and local farmers to ensure he is best suited to support farmers within his role, the next meeting being set for Spring 2025.

Chris Kane MP added:
“Brexit and the Tory mishandling of the withdrawal from the EU has introduced real uncertainty within farming and food production. The impact on the availability of labour has affected the whole rural economy, while further Tory economic mismanagement played havoc with interest rates, badly damaging businesses. Subsequent trade deals, signed by the previous Tory Government, have also impacted farming across the UK.

“Farmers have been badly let down by the previous Tory government and there is a real need to focus on the rural economy, and help the sector recover.”

“I am in no doubt about the challenges facing farmers, and I am committed to working with local farmers to ensure their voice is heard. Farming is a key industry within Stirling and Strathallan, and an industry which needs to be protected and developed.

This was a great opportunity to cut through party politics and speak openly with important members of the farming sector within our community. I know that there are issues, such as the potential changes to inheritance tax, which do need further discussions, and I will be meeting regularly with our local representatives to ensure that their views are heard and inputted into government at the highest level.”