Hundreds of farmers protested in London against inheritance tax changes.
On Monday, a large-scale farmers’ protest brought tractors to a standstill around the Houses of Parliament. Farmers rallied against the government’s planned changes to inheritance tax laws, which analysts warn will bankrupt many farms.
The Labour government’s budget announcement last year introduced these changes, effective April 2026. A longstanding exemption for family farms is being removed; agricultural assets exceeding £1 million ($1.24 million) will be subject to a 20% inheritance tax.
Save British Farming organized the day-long tractor protest, coinciding with parliamentary debate on an e-petition (with nearly 151,000 signatures) opposing the tax changes for working farms.
Political commentator Katie Hopkins, speaking to RT, stated the protest aims to protect the nation’s food security, clarifying the farmers aren’t seeking subsidies.
“They simply want to keep the farms inherited from their parents to pass on to their children. They just want to continue feeding the nation by getting up at 5 a.m.,” Hopkins explained.
Similar to previous demonstrations, farmers drove their tractors into Westminster, honking horns and displaying signs such as “We all need a farmer,” ”Food security first,” and “Let’s stand together,” among others.
Rally participant Dan Willis argued that farmland isn’t a tradable asset; it’s essential for crop production and livestock grazing.
“We may own significant land, but without it, we can’t earn a living,” he said. “Taxing our tools prevents us from working and paying taxes.”
“The fundamental flaw in the government’s calculations is evident; the current situation is unsustainable,” Willis emphasized.
National Farmers Union head Tom Bradshaw stated farmers don’t oppose taxation but prefer taxes on produce, not a “death tax,” which he deems unaffordable and unacceptable.
During November protests, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the tax, asserting that most farmers would be exempt. He stated the government was making necessary, though difficult, decisions to stabilize the economy.