Hundreds of farmers across the UK rallied this week, blocking streets around Parliament as they protest against planned inheritance tax changes they believe could devastate their livelihoods. With tractors lining the roads, the message was clear: the government’s new tax on agricultural assets has triggered what they liken to a "war on farmers."
The planned tax, effective from April 2026, will impose a 20% inheritance tax on agricultural assets valued over £1 million, which has previously been exempt. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Labour government insists it will only affect the 500 largest agricultural estates. "We'd have to sell the farm; we're not making enough to continue and pay succession tax," stated Toby Cawston, 21, from Suffolk, echoing the sentiments of many farmers at the protest.
Demonstrations have taken place throughout the country, with events reported in Gloucestershire, Tewkesbury, Stroud, and Gloucester. Last Monday, more than 70 tractors formed convoys around Gloucestershire, voicing their opposition. Farmers decried the plans, asserting it would "ruin" their farms and contribute to rising food prices.
Speakers at these protests included farmers like Alan Hocke from Grange Farm, who criticized the inheritance tax, stating, "The inheritance tax is going to ruin us, it's as simple as [that]." Organizers of the protests indicated they were motivated not just by economic factors but also by the fear of losing generational farms. "The cash flow for most families is tight enough as it is; we simply cannot bear this added burden," Hocke said.
According to recent government figures, about 17% of UK farms were unprofitable this past year, and only 41% made profits exceeding £50,000. Yet the financial strain could worsen under the new tax regime, as farmers now face the risk of their estates being taxed significantly upon inheritance.
Despite this, the Labour party remains steadfast, insisting the changes are necessary for funding public services, including the NHS. Stroud MP Simon Opher expressed this viewpoint by saying, "Typically, farmers will get £3 million free of inheritance tax and thereafter pay only half the normal rate. It’s tough; I understand, but we feel this is necessary." Critics are not convinced, arguing the changes tip the scales against family-run farms and encourage the transfer of agricultural land to non-producers.
Farmers have highlighted their commitment to sustainability and food security. Many shared concerns over potential future food imports if local farms collapse due to the financial pressures from new taxation. Simon Broad, who helped organize the protests, warned, "We need to make sure we're not left reliant on imports. We're running tight margins already, and this will only exacerbate the situation. It is imperative we remain self-sufficient."
Mrs. Hartley, another farmer at the protests, voiced her worry for her children's future: "My children aspire to be farmers. They want to continue our family legacy. This is not about becoming millionaires; it's about keeping our farms alive and thriving."
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has joined these demonstrations, claiming confidence they can force the government to reconsider. He stated, "The campaign is ramping up; it's growing across the country. Peaceful protests can change the tide of government policy. We need to give farmers the support they deserve!"
According to the government's statement, it has earmarked £5 billion to support farmers over two years and emphasizes its commitment to sustaining food production. Nevertheless, farmers feel abandoned, arguing the new tax will put them at continued risk of losing what they have built over generations. "What good is capital if we can’t afford our farm because of taxes?" questioned Claire Seymour, another protester from Cranbrook.
While the government has promised streamlined thresholds and exemptions to aid farmers, several feel this does not solve the significant issue they face. Many fear for their descendants' ability to carry on the family business, with some stating they may need to sell farm instruments just to afford the tax burden.
The National Farmers Union, which has previously organized protests, showed solidarity for its members. NFU President Tom Bradshaw commented on the intensity of feeling surrounding the planned changes, saying, "We support any lawful demonstrations working toward stopping what would be the family farm tax. The level of passion shown by farmers demonstrates how serious this issue is."
Paving the way for continued protests, farmers around the UK are expected to maintain pressure on the government as they fight to safeguard their farms for future generations. With momentum building and public sentiment growing, the government may soon face mounting pressure to rethink its financial strategies impacting those who play such a pivotal role within the agricultural community.