Farmers across the United Kingdom are gearing up for what they are calling a 'National Day of Unity' set for January 25, 2024, as they push back against proposed inheritance tax changes which they argue could devastate family farms. The government’s controversial decision to scrap inheritance tax relief for farms exceeding £1 million has generated significant anger within the agricultural community and sparked the launch of the "EDP's Fair Deal for Farmers" campaign with calls for this policy to be reversed.
Last November, thousands took to the streets of London, gathering for a protest rally and mass lobbying event aimed at making their voices heard among Members of Parliament (MPs) concerned with the impact of this policy. The upcoming Day of Unity is intended not only to thank the public for their support but also to send a clear message to politicians: the fight against the 'badly thought-out' tax will continue until it is sufficiently consulted and reassessed.
National Farmers' Union (NFU) president Tom Bradshaw stated, “Farmers haven’t taken this destructive policy lying down and we won’t give up. There is too much at risk – our families, our future, our heritage and the undermining of the very sector which provides the safe, secure supply of British food.” This sense of urgency among farmers reflects deep-seated concerns for their livelihoods and the legacy of family farms.
Come January, towns across the country from the Midlands to the wider UK will witness gatherings of farmers rallying together as part of this collective action. Bradshaw described the day as one where “everyone who wants to support family farms from across the UK will have the opportunity to show unity and strength.”
The proposed tax changes, which will impose inheritance tax at 20% on inherited land valued over £1 million starting April 2026, have met fierce backlash. Farmers argue the £1 million threshold is alarmingly low, especially considering the inflated prices of agricultural land compared to the actual profits generated from farming.
Echoing sentiments of frustration, Richard Yates, a farmer from Bridgnorth, remarked, “It's an issue which isn’t going away. The farming industry has been prodded unjustifiably, and I have never seen farmers as united and angry as we are today.”
The NFU’s campaign against the family farm tax, branded with the loud hashtag #StopTheFamilyFarmTax, has gained traction with the involvement of all UK farming unions, including NFU Cymru, NFU Scotland, and the Ulster Farmers’ Union. Activists have mobilized under slogans emphasizing support for family farms, and the devastating effects the tax could have on the rural economy.
Formerly exempt agricultural assets are now being subjected to scrutiny and criticism, with farmers fearing they may be forced to sell their land or break up family operations to pay tax liabilities. “Many may have to be broken up or sold to pay the tax man, so this is the issue for county farmers at the moment,” said Ed Garratt, NFU Shropshire county adviser.
The planned Day of Unity will feature localized events throughout the UK, with NFU leaders relaying details as they finalize their action plans. “Our mass lobby in London and our banner campaign show this issue is not going away. We will continue to fight it,” said Jane Bassett, NFU regional board chair, signaling the NFU’s commitment to advocating against the tax.
Farmers like Garratt and many others have been putting up banners across key constituencies, creating visual reminders for the public and politicians alike about the importance of family farms. The strategic placements along busy roads are part of their efforts to keep public focus on the potentially disastrous consequences of the proposed inheritance tax measures.
While preparing for the Day of Unity, NFU members and supporters remain resolute, articulately voicing their concerns over the future viability of family farming. “We want to work with the government but they must listen to our side of the story,” Garratt added, emphasizing the desire for collaboration over contention.
The upcoming protests aim to integrate collective farmer voices nationwide, reinforcing unity and determination among individuals who feel passionately about preserving the farming heritage and its contributions to both the economy and food security.
Through their actions and messaging, these farmers are not just fighting for their businesses; they are portraying the broader significance of family farms as integral to British culture and sustainability.
