Farmers across the UK are considering taking more extreme actions if the government does not reverse its decision to reduce inheritance tax relief on agricultural properties. Over 13,000 farmers gathered in Westminster to protest against this move, with many expressing their concerns about the implications of this policy.
Tom Bradshaw, the president of the NFU, stated that the agricultural community is in favor of a tougher approach with ministers and more disruptive demonstrations. He also mentioned that further local actions may be taken if the Budget measure is not reconsidered. Bradshaw emphasized that the government needs to decide how to respond to the farmers’ demands.
While some ministers have defended the plan, many protesters believe that it will lead to food shortages and the breakup of family farms. TV personality Jeremy Clarkson joined the demonstrators in calling the policy a significant blow to agriculture. Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, there were incidents where farm vehicles were forced through “no entry” barriers, prompting police intervention.
Farmers like Oliver Atkinson and Tom Morphew expressed their worries about the future of farming in the UK. They highlighted the importance of supporting the next generation of farmers and ensuring food security in the country. Tom Morphew pointed out that relying on food imports can be risky, especially in times of global instability.
In response to the protests, the government defended its decision, stating that difficult choices had to be made to address gaps in public finances. Chancellor Rachel Reeves and environment secretary Steve Reed reiterated their commitment to the farming industry, emphasizing the need for sustainable food production and rural economic growth.
NFU president Tom Bradshaw raised concerns about a possible disconnect between the Treasury and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) regarding the policy. He suggested that there may be discrepancies in the data used by these departments, leading to conflicting figures on the impact of the inheritance tax changes on farmers.
Despite Treasury data indicating that most farmers will not pay any inheritance tax under the new rules, farmers argue that Defra data paints a different picture. According to Defra, a significant percentage of farm businesses are valued above the £1 million threshold, making them subject to inheritance tax.
The debate between farmers and the government continues as both sides try to address the challenges facing the agricultural sector in the UK. The outcome of this conflict will have far-reaching consequences for the future of farming and food production in the country.
