Dartmoor MPs hit out at Budget over taxes and rural living costs
Sir Geoffrey Cox and Sir Mel Stride have criticised the Government’s economic approach, arguing that its latest measures fall short of what Devon’s rural communities need
Two MPs representing Dartmoor constituencies have criticised the Government’s Budget, warning that its measures do not go far enough to address the economic pressures facing rural communities.
Sir Geoffrey Cox, Conservative MP for Torridge and Tavistock, described the Budget as “playacting”, while Sir Mel Stride, Conservative MP for Central Devon, called it a budget of “sticking plasters”.
Both raised concerns to The Moorlander about the impact of taxation and the cost of living on households and businesses in Devon, with farming and rural economic growth among the issues highlighted.
Sir Geoffrey said the Budget failed to provide a convincing long-term plan for the economy, food security and energy costs.
“If you want to work hard, save, build a business, create local employment or put money aside for your retirement, this Labour Government will come after you,” he said.
He criticised the Government’s approach to taxation and welfare spending, arguing that further taxes would place additional pressure on people who work, save and invest.
Sir Geoffrey also questioned whether the Budget offered enough support for farming and rural households.
He said it failed to provide a serious response to food security following changes to the Sustainable Farming Incentive in 2026.
The MP also argued that the measures announced on energy costs did little to address the impact of Net Zero policies, particularly for rural households reliant on heating oil.
“This is not a vision for the country. It is playacting,” he said.
Sir Mel Stride also raised concerns about the effect of the Budget on rural households and businesses, including pensioners, landlords, farmers and the tourism sector.
“This is a Budget of sticking plasters,” he said. “A few temporary measures on fuel and heating oil will not fix the underlying weakness in our economy, and rural communities like ours will pay the price.”
He criticised changes affecting savings and property income, saying they would hit pensioners and local landlords at a time when Dartmoor needed homes available to rent.
Sir Mel also warned about the potential impact of inheritance tax changes on family farms and said a tourist tax would harm hospitality businesses.
“Devon needs a government that backs business and gets the economy growing again,” he said.
The Budget was delivered by Chancellor John Healey on Wednesday, October 28.
The MPs’ comments come as Devon awaits further progress on plans for a mayoral strategic authority covering the county.
The Government confirmed in the Budget that it was in the final stages of agreeing a new authority, which could bring additional powers and funding for regional priorities.