Speaking in a Westminster Hall debate on Rural Fuel Duty Relief, James Wild MP criticised the government’s approach to rural living costs, contrasting Conservative support with what he described as Labour’s systematic undermining of rural communities.
He highlighted the end of the 5p fuel duty cut and the scrapping of the 16-year fuel duty freeze which he said hits rural areas hardest, where cars are essential and public transport is limited.
Beyond fuel, he raised the Family Farm Tax, which Conservatives have pledged to reverse, and business rates rises that could cost pubs up to £12,900 over three years. He challenged Ministers on whether rates would be reconsidered and called for a proactive review of the rural fuel duty relief scheme warning that Labour’s cumulative tax rises threaten rural communities and underline a stark contrast in how the parties prioritise the countryside.
