In support of farmers and landowners in his constituency dealing with the recent extreme wet weather Kevin Hollinrake, MP for Thirsk and Malton, has submitted a written question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
The MP has asked the Secretary of State for the Environment why businesses that contribute to flood defences schemes receive tax relief whilst landowner and farmers who also play an important role through soil management, investment in flood defences and water storage do not.
Mr Hollinrake is aware of the work farmers have done, and are continuing to do, to help alleviate the effects of flooding. Many farmers have already implemented measures on their land and in their business practice to combat heavy rainfall. However the MP wants not just recognition of the work done but also financial incentives to aid those who take the initiative. Mr Hollinrake has been speaking to local farmers themselves and representatives from the agricultural industry about land management and drainage with regard to flooding. He appreciates the, often unseen, work done on farmland that channels and redirects excess water and in so doing protects residential areas.