Keir Starmer has firmly dismissed a suggestion from former Labour adviser John McTernan to end support for small farms. McTernan, who served in Number 10 under Tony Blair, said the government could “do to them what Margaret Thatcher did to the miners.”
McTernan’s Controversial Statement
McTernan’s remarks came during a GB News interview, where he reacted to news of upcoming farmer protests. Farmers are expected to voice concerns over potential changes to inheritance tax rules outlined by Rachel Reeves in the recent Budget. Under these changes, farms valued over £1 million could be taxed upon inheritance.
In the interview, McTernan stated, “If farmers want to go on the streets, we can do to them what Margaret Thatcher did to the miners.” GB News presenter Patrick Christys probed further, asking, “So just to be clear, John, you would beat them up?” McTernan responded, “It’s an industry we could do without.”
Calls to “Close Down” Small Farms
Christys pressed McTernan on his stance, clarifying the historical impact on miners during the Thatcher era. McTernan replied, “Close down the industry.” He argued that small farms were not essential, suggesting that if farmers protested by spreading slurry, it wouldn’t make a difference.
Starmer’s Support for Farmers
When asked about McTernan’s comments during a press conference at the COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, Starmer was clear in his disapproval. “I totally disagree,” he stated. “I’m absolutely committed to supporting our farmers. I said that before the election and after the election. I will do everything I can to ensure they not only survive but thrive well into the future.”
Starmer emphasised that small farms play a vital role in the UK’s food industry and are essential to a sustainable, local economy. His response underlined a commitment to supporting the agricultural sector, pushing back against McTernan’s divisive view.
You may also like: Professor reveals how inheritance tax relief broke UK farming
