Overview
- Fifth‑generation Pembrokeshire farmer Charles Rees, who has cancer, told Countryfile he had suicidal thoughts over his farm’s future and left the interview in tears.
- Countryfile reported that rural mental health charities had been told of two farmer suicides where families cited inheritance tax as a contributing factor.
- Under changes announced in October 2024, agricultural property above £1m will lose relief and face a 20% levy starting in April 2026.
- The Treasury and farming minister Dame Angela Eagle confirmed earlier this month that the government will not reconsider the reforms.
- Rees has since undergone surgery and is recovering, with viewers posting sympathy and anger on social media as his family warns son Tom could face a bill of about £1m.