MP calls on Brown to review 4x4 tax for farmers

12.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 29th Mar 2006

In his recent Budget, Gordon Brown raised road tax for owners of 4x4 and other 'less green' vehicles. This has raised serious concerns among local farmers who need these vehicles for their business.

Local MP Tim Farron has written to the Chancellor asking him to exempt these vehicles from the rise in tax. Tim also pointed out that 4x4 vehicles provided a lifeline during the recent heavy snowfall in Cumbria as they also do in times of flooding.

Tim commented: "I support the taxing of large 'gas guzzling' vehicles that have a negative environmental impact, but do not feel it is acceptable to do so on vehicles that are essential for farmers to conduct their business. Given that farmers are still awaiting the arrival of their Single Farm Payments, it seems particularly unfair that the Government should demand greater taxes at this time".