Farm building levy a 'tax on food production'

17:02:20 16th February 2010

New farm buildings may be faced with a new levy resulting from a change in planning regulations, it has been reported.

The government's Community Infrastructure Levy could result in a charge on almost all new building development, the National Farmers Union (NFU) reports, with no exemption for farm buildings.

The move has been described as a "tax on food production" by the NFU, Country Land & Business Association, Tenant Farmers Association and the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers.

The industry bodies said in a joint statement that it was a "very short-sighted move" from government, particularly when it is promoting food production as part of its Food 2030 strategy.

"The charge will undermine the desire and ability of farmers and growers to invest in their business - essential for our long term food security. It is nothing more than a tax on food production," said the statement.