Hundreds of farmers took to the streets of central London on Wednesday, protesting Labour’s proposed inheritance tax reforms, which they argue could spell disaster for family farms.
A convoy of tractors, decked out with Union flags and signs like “No farmers, no food” and “Save British Farming,” roared through Parliament Square in a spirited demonstration.
The protest, organized by Kent Fairness for Farmers and Save British Farming, was fueled by outrage over a planned 20% tax on agricultural assets over £1 million, set to take effect in 2026. Farmers say the tax, combined with already razor-thin margins and rising costs, threatens their livelihood.
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, joined the rally, urging farmers to maintain pressure on the government. “Wake up and smell the coffee,” he warned. “You’re going to lose all the seats in rural areas if you don’t change the rules.”
Martin and Joe Brandreth, third-generation farmers from Warwickshire, drove six hours to join the protest, their tractors adorned with festive lights and banners reading, “British Farming – Keir Today, Gone Tomorrow.” Martin praised public support, saying, “The response has been immense. We just hope those in charge listen.”
The emotional toll of the proposed changes was evident. National Farmers’ Union (NFU) President Tom Bradshaw broke down during a parliamentary hearing, highlighting the mental strain on older farmers. “It’s not about money,” he said. “It’s a lifetime of work and heritage.”
Matt Cullen, a beef farmer and protest organizer, called the movement a “war” and vowed to force a government U-turn. Liz Webster, founder of Save British Farming, suggested more drastic measures, warning that farmers might cut off food supplies if the government doesn’t relent.
Critics of the policy, including Conservative MP Jerome Mayhew and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, slammed the government for betraying rural communities. However, Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the policy, claiming most farmers wouldn’t be affected due to a £3 million threshold. The NFU disputes this, arguing that three-quarters of family farms would still face the tax, forcing them to sell land.
“This is a warning shot,” farmer Jeff Gibson told The Times. “If this isn’t addressed, it’d be easy for farmers to bring the country to a standstill.”
As tractors blared horns to “The Final Countdown,” the message was clear: farmers won’t back down until their voices are heard. Whether the government will respond remains to be seen, but the fight for British farming is far from over.
