Farmers in the UK staged a tractor protest outside Parliament, contesting Labour's proposed adjustments to inheritance tax rules. The demonstration, organized by Save British Farming, coincides with a parliamentary debate on an e-petition signed by over 148,000 individuals, advocating for the retention of current inheritance tax exemptions for working farms.
Labor plans to implement a 20% inheritance tax on farms valued above £1 million. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage addressed the farmers, encouraging "persistent and peaceful" protests and noting the campaign's nationwide growth.
During the debate, MPs highlighted the challenges faced by farmers. South Cotswold MP Dr. Roz Savage quoted Dwight Eisenhower, stating that the government often seems disconnected from the realities of farming. Savage emphasized the necessity of farmers in reversing environmental degradation, as they manage 70% of the UK's land.
MP Sam Rushworth argued that inheriting a £5 million farm does not equate to personal wealth, emphasizing the custodial responsibility to produce food. He criticized the previous government for inadequacies in trade deals and infrastructure while supporting the closure of tax loopholes to prevent land price inflation. Rushworth suggested adjustments to better align the policy with its goals, noting that the £1 million threshold is low.
Labour MP David Smith pointed out that most farms in North Northumberland exceed the £1 million threshold, advocating for a higher threshold to alleviate concerns for family farmers. Smith proposed an "active farmer test" and a "clawback" system to ensure land remains in agricultural use.
Following the protest, tractors have cleared from Whitehall, and traffic has resumed.
Source: The Standard