A motion calling for Cornwall Council to stand up for local farmers has been submitted for debate at a meeting of the full council in Truro next week.

The motion, submitted by Cllr Nick Craker and seconded by Cllr James Mustoe, asks for the leader of the council to write to the Government outlining the authority’s dismay at the recent Budget decision to restrict Agricultural Property Relief.

A second motion, calling for the community-led housing early-stage feasibility fund to be reinstated, has been submitted by Cllr Julian German and seconded by Cllr Laurie Magowan.

The Chairman of Cornwall Council will make a decision at the meeting on whether the motions will be debated on the day, or if they will be referred to committees.

Also on the agenda for the meeting, which takes place the County Hall (Lys Kernow) on Tuesday, November 26, are the appointment of a new Section 151 Officer and a new Monitoring Officer for the council, as well as the budget for the Harbours Board for 2025/26.

The meeting will also provide an opportunity for both members of the public and for other councillors to pose questions to the leader and her Cabinet colleagues.

Cllr Linda Taylor, leader of Cornwall Council, said: “I really hope we are able to debate our support for Cornwall’s farmers at next week’s meeting.

“Cornwall’s geography means our farms play a huge part of our lives, and form a vital part of the UK’s economy.

“The council already approved a motion entitled ‘Supporting Cornwall’s Farmers’ back in May 2023, and I think it is really important we reiterate that support in the face of new challenges to the industry.”

The meeting will start at 10.30am and is members of the public will be able to view it at County Hall. You can also watch proceedings online via our webcast service.

Cornish farmers are to stage a rally to support farming and raise concerns about food security on Saturday in Truro.

The event, organised by Farmers Movement Cornwall, will see members of the public join in to highlight the country's reliance on imports for agricultural inputs and the potential risk of food shortages.

This comes as thousands of farmers are set to march in London to protest against the Government's inheritance tax plans for farmers.

The rally vehicles will assemble at Truro Livestock Market at midday on Saturday, November 23.