Farmers rally against inheritance tax changes; do you support them?

On December 11, 2024, farmers organized a significant protest in Parliament against proposed changes to inheritance tax that could have severe implications for agricultural assets. This movement follows a previous similar protest where around 13,000 farmers rallied in London to voice their concerns regarding the government's decision to impose a 20% inheritance tax on agricultural properties valued over £1 million starting in April 2026. The initiative is spearheaded by Save British Farming and Kent Fairness, signaling a growing unrest among the farming community. The proposed tax reforms have generated considerable debate, with the government asserting that only the wealthiest 500 estates will be impacted, estimating that £520 million would be raised to address a significant budget deficit. However, farming organizations, including the National Farmers Union and Country Land and Business Association, contest this claim, arguing that up to 70,000 farms could be adversely affected. Farmers have expressed their frustrations, articulating concerns that the changes could threaten their ability to pass on family farms to the next generation, jeopardizing the future of farming in the UK. Matt Cullen, organizer of Kent Fairness For Farmers, emphasized the necessity for farmers to unite against the government's tax decisions, declaring that they will fight back to safeguard their livelihoods and properties. This ongoing agitation reflects broader concerns regarding rural economic viability and the sense of alienation felt by farmers from government policy-making. As the protests gain momentum, the outcome remains uncertain, but farmers continue to mobilize in an effort to protect their interests and demand a reconsideration of proposed policies.