Farmers across the country are preparing to stage a new tractor protest outside Parliament on Monday as they intensify their campaign against proposed changes to inheritance tax rules. The rally, organised by Save British Farming, coincides with a parliamentary debate on an e-petition signed by more than 148,000 people, urging the government to retain existing tax exemptions for working farms.
The planned changes, set to take effect in April 2026, were announced in the Budget and include the introduction of a 20% inheritance tax on farms valued at over £1 million. Previously, family farms benefited from a full exemption, allowing them to be passed down without incurring inheritance tax. Farmers fear the new policy will place immense financial strain on family-run agricultural businesses, potentially forcing many to sell their land.
Farmers fear impact on family farms
Save British Farming, which has been at the forefront of the campaign against the reforms, argues that these changes could have a devastating effect on farming communities, leading to a decline in traditional family farms and an increase in corporate land ownership.
Labour, however, has remained firm on its position, insisting that the new policy is necessary to create a fairer tax system. A spokesperson for the party said, “The current exemptions disproportionately benefit wealthier landowners. This reform ensures that inheritance tax is more equitable while still supporting genuine farming businesses.”
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is expected to show his support for the protesting farmers by addressing them during a stopover on their journey to London. He has been vocal in his criticism of the inheritance tax changes, calling them an attack on the British farming industry.
Government defends tax reform
The Government, responding to the e-petition, stated that its commitment to farmers remains “steadfast,” but added that there is an “urgent need to repair the public finances in as fair a way as possible.”
A government spokesperson said, “The reform of inheritance tax relief strikes the right balance between supporting farmers and ensuring that the tax system is fair for everyone.”
Despite these assurances, opposition to the policy has been growing among farmers and industry representatives. The National Farmers Union (NFU), which has backed previous demonstrations, has expressed strong concerns about the potential consequences of the tax reforms.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw reaffirmed the union’s support for the protests, stating, “The strength of feeling around the proposed family farm tax remains incredibly high. We support any members who want to take part in respectful and lawful demonstrations that work towards our goal of stopping this damaging policy.”
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Growing political and public support
The planned protest is expected to attract significant public and media attention, with many MPs from various parties expressing support for the farmers’ cause. Conservative backbenchers have criticised Labour’s stance, warning that it could undermine the long-term sustainability of British agriculture.
Several farming organisations have also voiced their concerns, warning that the tax changes could lead to further consolidation within the agricultural sector, with small family-run farms struggling to compete against larger agribusinesses.
As the debate continues, farmers remain determined to fight for their livelihoods. With tractors set to roll into central London once again, campaigners hope their message will resonate with policymakers and lead to a reconsideration of the planned reforms.
Monday’s protest is expected to be one of the largest demonstrations by the farming community in recent years, highlighting the deep frustration and anxiety felt by many within the industry. As MPs prepare to discuss the petition, all eyes will be on Westminster to see whether the government will heed the growing calls for a reversal of the proposed tax changes.
