Thousands of farmers gathered in Westminster to protest against tax changes proposed by the government, which would impose inheritance tax on farms worth more than £1 million. The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) organised the demonstration, with over 10,000 people estimated to be marching in the streets against the plans. Protesters displayed signs and banners voicing their opposition, with slogans such as ‘Stop killing the people who feed you’ and ‘Stuck Farmer.’
Among the protesters were children on toy tractors leading a small march, as well as public figures like Jeremy Clarkson and Kaleb Cooper, who expressed concerns about the potential impact of the tax changes on British farming. Clarkson warned that the new policy could signal the end for British farming, while Cooper highlighted the significant effect it could have on farmers who want to pass down their businesses to the next generation.
Farmers like Liam Price, a beef and sheep farmer from Wales, are worried about the financial implications of the tax changes. Price expressed concerns that his family may have to sell a significant portion of their land to pay the levy, which could have a negative impact on food production in the country. The changes announced in the Budget would subject family farms to a 20% inheritance tax from April 2026, affecting the intergenerational transfer of farms.
Elizabeth Hanwell, another farmer from Wrexham, North Wales, emphasized the importance of MPs supporting farmers and leaving the industry alone. She, along with thousands of other farmers, attended the protest to show solidarity and demand that the government reconsider the proposed tax changes. The new leader of the Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, joined Tory MPs in opposing the policy, labeling it as cruel and unfair to family farms.
While the government argues that the inheritance tax changes will only impact a small percentage of farm estates, the NFU believes that a larger proportion of farms could be affected. The unique economic challenges farmers face, including high asset bases and low returns, make the affordability of the tax different for agricultural businesses. Despite reassurances from Prime Minister Keir Starmer that most farms would remain unaffected, farmers remain concerned about the potential impact on their livelihoods.
The demonstration in Westminster aimed to draw attention to the challenges faced by farmers due to the proposed tax changes and to urge the government to reconsider its decision. Farmers from across the country gathered to voice their opposition to the policies that could jeopardize the future of British farming. The NFU and farmers alike are calling for support and understanding from policymakers to ensure the sustainability of the agricultural industry in the UK.
