Somerset farmers talk energy and tax
Somerset farmers, land owners and rural business came together to discuss the hot topics of renewable energy and taxation in the agricultural industry on March 24th.
The seminar, chaired by Philip Wilson of South West general insurers Cornish Mutual, was well timed, coming the day after the Chancellor’s Budget and right in the middle of Climate Week, thus attracting nearly 150 delegates.
Four influential speakers from the worlds of law, accountancy and health and safety each gave presentations on their areas of expertise at the Oake Manor Golf Club near Taunton.
Opening the evening’s debates, Nick Dell, partner at Pardoes Solicitors, gave an insight into the legal requirements for renewable energy schemes, focussing particularly on the uncertainty arising from the Government’s ongoing review of the Feed in Tariffs.
Following on from this, Samantha Vigus, a partner of Mitchells Chartered Accountants gave an up to the minute analysis of the Chancellor’s proposals, and outlined the changes in furnished holiday let rules which take effect on April 6.
Oliver Dale, Managing Director of Dairy Management Systems highlighted the importance of Health and Safety for rural businesses, comparing the accident rates within the farming industry against the far lower rates of farmers with a structured health & safety plan in place.
To round off the evening, David Mitchell, principal of Mitchells Chartered Accountants gave the room the benefit of his Topical Tax Tips, including those relating to renewable energy schemes. These were based on his extensive experience advising clients on taxation matters for the last 26 years and from his own practical experience.
Following the presentations, Philip Wilson led the debate by questioning the panel on matters arising from their presentations, and invited the audience to join in by adding their own questions.
Samantha Vigus of Mitchells Chartered Accountants commented: "Seminars like this are particularly useful to ensure everyone is kept up to date in an industry which is constantly changing, whilst also being a lovely social occasion. I think the evening was a great success and was of benefit to all who attended".
Philip Wilson, Area Manager of Cornish Mutual for Somerset, Devon and Dorset added: "From speaking to our Members, I know that renewable energy and taxation are extremely important issues, especially following the Feed in Tariff review and the Budget. It was fantastic to have four experts sharing their knowledge and opinions and the event was very well received."
