The budget failed to take account of the countryside and was a missed opportunity, National Farmers Union president Ben Gill said this week. 'There was little for farmers or growers in the budget,' he said. 'Opportunities to help them rebuild their businesses following last year's disaster were not taken.' Although there were no increases in fuel duty, UK hauliers still pay considerably more in tax than their continental European counterparts. This adds costs to rural and fresh produce businesses, which depend on road transport.

However, Gill welcomed the introduction of working tax credits to assist farmers with low or non-existent profits. Moves to give tax breaks to small businesses could also prove of comfort to growers and farmers.

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