Farmers gathered today in Chester to protest against inheritance tax changes that will threaten family farms across the UK.
Farmers gathered at Chester Town Hall Square, as part of the National Day of Unity organised by the NFU.
They were joined by Aphra Brandreth MP (Chester South & Eddisbury) together with Conservative Councillors from Cheshire East and Cheshire West & Chester Councils, numerous Parish Councillors, family, friends and members of the public who wanted to express their support.
Three key issues were highlighted at the protest.
The inheritance tax announced by the Chancellor in October is poorly designed and highlights that;
The Government does not understood the significant impacts of the Policy that will devastate family farming in Britain.
They also thanked the public for their on-going support.
The protest is one of a wave of actions, following Rachel Reeves announcement that starting April 6, 2026, full relief from inheritance tax will only apply to the first £1 million of agricultural and business property.
Anything above that will see landowners facing a 50% relief rate, which means they could end up paying up to 20% in inheritance tax instead of the usual 40%. The good news is that this tax can be paid off in installments over ten years without interest.
Whilst the government claims this change will only affect the wealthiest farmers, the NFU disputes that figure, as misleading. Rachel Hallos, a hill farmer and NFU vice president, hopes these protests will help the public understand why farmers are so upset.
She stressed the need for the government to listen, as the recent budget decisions are harmful, especially regarding inheritance tax. Farmers rely on their assets to produce food, and losing them would be a huge blow. Rachel also mentioned the lack of time to plan for passing down businesses to the next generation, which is deeply concerning. If farmers have to sell off assets to cover tax bills, it will threaten their ability to produce food.
Richard Blackburn, a Nantwich dairy farmer, organized the Chester protest. He shared his concerns about the massive inheritance tax his son would face if he took over the farm without it being gifted first.
He explained that his son might have to sell cows or land, jeopardizing the farm’s future. Richard feels let down, as farmers work hard to produce food but don’t see any tax reforms coming their way.
Robert Brunt from Congleton echoed these worries,
saying the inheritance tax could become “unaffordable” for farmers, hindering their ability to invest in their businesses.
Alistair Dobson from South Cheshire believes the proposed reforms could wipe out farmers unless changes are made.
He pointed out that while farmers don’t mind paying taxes, it needs to be structured in a way that supports them.
He added that the government’s estimate of 25% of farmers being affected is likely closer to 75%. It’s clear that farmers are feeling the pressure and are determined to make their voices heard.
References:
Eleanor Whitman: https://dywpk.org.uk/farmers-cows-and-tractors-gather-in-chester-for-inheritance-tax-protest/
Davina Ramos / Angela Ferguson: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cp9x4zg7ygro
Photos:
ITV Granada News Reports,
CWaC Conservatives,
CEC Conservatives
