Chartered accountants specialising in farming have come up with a set of proposals to help revive the rural economy.

They have seen their countryside clients reeling from a series of financial blows and are calling for positive support from a new government, including changes in the tax rules.

Hastings chartered accountant Peter Silk, a member of the group of farming specialists within the Institute of Chartered Accountants who drew up the proposals, said swift action was needed.

The group is calling for:

An end to the current restrictions on the Enterprise Investment Scheme.

Capital allowances on the conversion of redundant buildings.

VAT zero rating for the conversion of redundant buildings for residential use.

A retirement scheme to help smaller and tenant farmers to leave the industry.

A one-stop shop for information on grant funding and regulatory advice.

Mr Silk said: "Foot-and-mouth has been a devastating blow to many rural businesses, whether directly involved in farming, in allied businesses or in tourism.

"There is now a desperate need for assistance in rebuilding existing businesses and encouraging new ones in rural areas, especially those areas worst affected by foot-and-mouth.

"If farming is to restructure, and if new businesses are to be encouraged, there must be assistance and incentives from government with practical policies that will work.

"The measures we have outlined could be targeted at new Rural Enterprise Zones in specific areas of the country most in need of support. The proposals could make a real difference to rural businesses."