Farmers demonstrate against inheritance tax changes

A convoy of dozens of tractors traversed Shropshire and Worcestershire to demonstrate against proposed modifications to inheritance tax regulations. This action follows Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ declaration during her Budget speech that inheritance tax would be levied on agricultural assets valued over £1m starting April 2026. Numerous vehicles displayed messages, either decorated or spray-painted, such as “no farming, no food, no future.” The government stated that the alteration is projected to impact approximately 2,000 estates annually, affirming its commitment to farmers “remains steadfast”. Approximately 50 vehicles departed from Halls Auction Centre in Shrewsbury, proceeding along the A5 on Wednesday. Concurrently, in Worcester, around 20 tractors traveled from the market and parked in Cathedral Square within the city centre. West Mercia Police reported that the demonstrations concluded peacefully, without any incidents or public disorder. Will Morgan, a beef and arable farmer from Tenbury Wells, stated, “We’ve been farming for generations where I farm, and I want to pass the farm on to my son, and this tax is going to ruin that in one fell swoop.” “There’s a preconceived idea about farmers, and we are a hard working bunch, and we just want to protect what we work very hard for.” “Driving through Worcester today… we’ve had so many waves and toots of support.” “It’s been absolutely fantastic.” Richard Wheeler, a lifelong farmer, commented, “It’s going to shake up the rural economy, it’s going to shake up employment… it’s never ending, it’s thick and fast.” “We are cash poor, our businesses do not turn a profit.” “I work 70 to 80 hours a week and I pay myself £15,000.” “We’re politely trying to point out that you need us, we’re not doing it to get rich, we’re doing it because we love it.”