Farmers Protest London Tax Reforms, Warning of Severe Consequences

Hundreds of tractors blocked Westminster as farmers decried inheritance tax changes, citing risks to family farms, food security, and mental health.

Farmers drove hundreds of tractors to Westminster, protesting a 20% inheritance tax on agricultural estates worth over £1 million, set to take effect in April 2026.
The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) warned the changes could force the sale of family farms and stymie environmental investments, with some farmers fearing they may lose generational legacies.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw expressed deep concern over the mental health toll on farmers, citing the risk of suicides among elderly farmers unable to mitigate the tax's impact.
Protesters, including farmers and campaign groups, hinted at potential escalation, such as strikes that could disrupt food supplies, if the government does not reconsider the policy.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the tax reforms, stating that only a small number of estates would be affected, while farming groups criticized the lack of consultation and clarity.