Gavin Lane replaces Victoria Vyvyan as new CLA president

Norfolk farmer Gavin Lane, who has taken over the presidency of the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) from Victoria Vyvyan today (19 November), has outlined his priorities for the coming two years.

These include campaigning against the government’s inheritance tax changes and securing certainty around agri-environmental schemes.

Gavin Lane, who is due to meet with Defra secretary Emma Reynolds at the organisation’s annual business conference on Thursday 20 November, said: “We are not giving up the fight on inheritance tax changes.

“The ELM schemes in England need to get back on track and we need to better understand what the government’s vision is for the countryside, as it isn’t clear or transparent.”

See also: Vicky the cow leads last-minute IHT fight in Westminster

Mr Lane, who grew up on his family farm on the edge of King’s Lynn, said he is also committed to championing the positive impact of land management and the importance of intergenerational family businesses to the wider economy during his presidency.

A family affair

At 25, Mr Lane started farming on a contract farming arrangement with his father.

He now owns and farms land on two separate arable farms totalling 1,200 acres, both with Countryside Stewardship schemes and using regenerative farming practices.

He is involved with a family residential property portfolio and with his wife, Jane, has diversified into a holiday cottage letting business.

“Long-term family businesses are a force for good, and I believe the rural economy has vast potential,” he said.

“There are massive opportunities in the countryside, including for young people, and if we can unlock the planning system that will make a big difference”

All businesses need stability, which in turn leads to improved confidence and ultimately economic growth, he added.

“We need a rural development policy that covers farming and family businesses for the next 10 years.”