Farmers Condemn Government's Refusal to Revise Inheritance Tax Policy

Farming groups warn of severe financial and social impacts from the upcoming 20% inheritance tax on farms valued over £1 million.

The UK government confirmed it will not alter its planned 20% inheritance tax on farms worth more than £1 million, set to take effect in 2026.
Farmers' representatives proposed taxing inherited farms only upon their sale to ease financial burdens, but this was rejected by ministers.
Critics argue the tax will dismantle family farms, harm food security, and exacerbate mental health challenges among older farmers.
The National Farmers Union (NFU) and other rural groups have organized protests, including tractor blockades, to oppose the policy.
Government officials defend the tax as a fair reform, claiming it will impact only a minority of estates and allow payments to be spread over ten years interest-free.