At the Welsh Labour conference in Llandudno, Prime Minister Keir Starmer vowed to defend the government’s budget “all day long,” despite facing protests from farmers outside the venue.
In his first address to the Welsh Labour conference since taking office, Starmer championed a “path of change” spearheaded by Labour-led governments in both Wales and Westminster.
“Let there be no doubt, I will defend our budget decisions tirelessly,” he said. “I will stand by our resolve to face fiscal realities head-on. These tough choices are essential to stabilize the economy, safeguard workers’ incomes, and invest in Britain’s and Wales’ futures, finally turning the page on austerity.”
Farmers Protest Inheritance Tax Changes
Outside the conference venue, farmers organized a tractor convoy in protest against the inheritance tax changes introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in last month’s budget. The protest, coordinated by the group Digon yw Digon (“Enough is Enough”), saw tractors and agricultural vehicles lining up outside Venue Cymru, with police escorting the convoy.
The group issued a statement saying: “Enough is enough. Our government isn’t listening. This is a chance to stand united with farmers and rural communities. We urge everyone to join in solidarity – whether on foot, by car, or in agricultural vehicles.”
Welsh farmer and YouTuber Gareth Wyn Jones criticized the government’s policies, claiming they were “destroying” an already struggling agricultural sector. Speaking to Sky News, he said: “The government is wrecking an industry that’s already on its knees—struggling mentally, emotionally, and physically. We need support to produce food for the nation, not more obstacles.”
Jones warned that the inheritance tax changes would force farmers to raise food prices, disproportionately affecting low-income families. “Affordable, healthy, and nutritious British food will become out of reach for many,” he said. “This is why we must push back and make the government understand: enough is enough.”
The protesters also planned to deliver a letter to Starmer beginning with the words, “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you.”
Starmer Unveils Investment and NHS Funding
Inside the conference, Starmer announced a £160 million investment zone for Wrexham and Flintshire, set to launch in 2025. He called the initiative a “gamechanger” and emphasized the synergy between Labour-led governments in Wales and Westminster.
During a visit to Airbus in North Wales alongside Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan, Starmer declared, “Communities in Wales and across the UK are ready for an exciting new era. With Labour leading both Wales and Britain, we can deliver for the people of Wales with the full force of our union.”
Morgan highlighted the collaboration between the two governments, describing it as a “power in partnership.” She also announced an additional £22 million to reduce NHS waiting lists in Wales, adding to the £28 million already pledged. The prime minister touted the record £21 billion allocated to Wales in the 2025 budget as evidence of Labour’s commitment to Welsh communities.
A Divided Response
While Starmer’s announcements were welcomed by Labour supporters, the farmers’ protests underscored the challenges his government faces in addressing rural concerns. As tensions between fiscal policies and community needs continue to surface, Starmer and his team are tasked with navigating a delicate balance. Photo by David Saunders, Wikimedia commons.