LONDON – More than 10,000 farmers and supporters descended on London today in a massive protest against proposed changes to inheritance tax that they say could devastate agricultural operations across the United Kingdom. Organized by the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), the rally marked one of the largest demonstrations by the farming community in recent years.
The government’s proposed tax revisions include a reduction in agricultural property relief, which currently allows farmers to transfer land, buildings, and machinery to heirs without paying significant inheritance tax. Farmers warn that the changes could saddle younger generations with crippling financial burdens, forcing many to sell off portions of their land to meet tax obligations.
The government argues the tax revisions are part of a broader effort to close loopholes and ensure wealth is distributed more equitably. However, critics within the farming community say the move fails to recognize the unique challenges faced by the agricultural sector, where land and assets are integral to production and often far exceed liquid wealth.
“The human impact of this policy is simply not acceptable—it’s wrong,” NFU President Tom Bradshaw said. “It’s kicking the legs out from under British food security.”
A spokesperson for the Department of Treasury acknowledged the concerns raised by farmers but emphasized the importance of balancing the tax system. “We are engaging with stakeholders to ensure the policy reflects fairness without undermining critical industries,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
U.K. farmers, known for being less confrontational than their European counterparts, have historically avoided the large-scale protests seen in France and other European countries. However, that restraint appears to be fading. Now, though, farmers say they will step up their action if the government doesn’t listen.
The controversy centers on a recent government budget decision to eliminate a longstanding tax exemption established in the 1990s, which shields agricultural property from inheritance tax. Starting in April 2026, farms valued at more than £1 million ($1.3 million) will be subject to a 20 percent inheritance tax when passed down to the next generation.
AP reports protesters were cheered by a crowd that police estimated at 13,000. Some held signs proclaiming “Stand with a farmer, not Starmer.” Another 1,800 farmers were invited into Parliament for a “mass lobby” organized by the National Farmers’ Union.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s center-left government says the “vast majority” of farms—about 75 percent —will not have to pay inheritance tax, and various loopholes mean that a farming couple can pass on an estate worth up to £3 million ($3.9 million) to their children tax-free. The 20 percent levy is half the 40 percent inheritance tax paid on other land and property in the U.K.
Starmer’s spokeswoman, Camilla Marshall, said the tax decision had been “difficult” but was not being reconsidered.
Supporters of the tax say it will recoup money from wealthy people who have bought up agricultural land as an investment, driving up the cost of farmland.
“It’s become the most effective way for the super-rich to avoid paying their inheritance tax,” Environment Secretary Steve Reed wrote in The Daily Telegraph, adding that high land prices were “robbing young farmers of the dream of owning their own farm.”
But the farmers’ union says more than 60% of working farms could face a tax hit. And while farms may be worth a lot on paper, profits are often small. Government figures show that income for most types of farms fell in the year ending February 2024, in some cases by more than 70 percent. Average farm income ranged from about £17,000 ($21,000) for grazing livestock farms to £143,000 ($180,000) for specialist poultry farms.
The government is expected to release further details on the proposed tax changes in the coming weeks. For now, farmers remain steadfast in their commitment to fight for their livelihoods.
