Labour’s hypocrisy could not be clearer when it comes to farming. Angela Rayner is embroiled in a mess over failing to pay the right amount of Stamp Duty and must come clean about dodging inheritance tax in Ashton-under-Lyne, particularly now as she drives through the cruel Family Farm Tax and pushes for further inheritance tax rises that will hit farmers and rural families hardest.
It is the height of hypocrisy for a Labour politician to lecture others on taxes while seeking to hike them for everyone else.
The Prime Minister owes the public clear answers about what he knew, when he knew it and why he still stands by Rayner.
The longer he delays the more this looks like a cover-up. If he had a backbone he would sack her immediately.
Farmers, families and communities across the country are being targeted with new taxes while Labour’s senior figures duck the very obligations they demand from others. This is nothing less than contempt for rural Britain. Our farmers deserve better than a government that has one rule for them and another for everyone else.
This scandal shows Labour’s true colours. They spare themselves while punishing everyone else. Labour’s reckless tax agenda, from the Family Farm Tax to attacks on homes and businesses, is proof of a party governing for itself not for the country.
Keir Starmer must find a spine and remove Angela Rayner. If he cannot demonstrate accountability and leadership his credibility will continue to collapse.
Only the Conservatives will stand up for rural Britain. We will end Labour’s tax doom loop and give farming and rural communities the respect and support they deserve.
Kevin Hollinrake is Chairman of the Conservative Party