Here is an NFU statement following today’s Budget by George Osborne, Chancellor for the Exchequer:
NFU chief economist Gail Soutar said: “We are pleased that the Chancellor announced that he would be setting the Annual Investment Allowance permanently at £200,000. The NFU highlighted the need for the government to set a long term, substantial level for AIA in our manifesto in order to give some security to our farmers and growers who can better plan for the future by investing in their businesses – which is particularly important during these volatile times. Unfortunately the current capital allowances system does not fully reflect the full cost of investment for farmers. We had hoped to see some progress on buildings and fixed structures that are considered wasting assets. Similarly reductions in corporation tax will have a limited impact on the 92.5% of farm businesses that are sole traders and partnerships.
“Like many people across the country, our members will be relieved that fuel duty will remain frozen for the remainder of the year.
