Farmer’s rally in London: thousands march to Westminster in tax protest

Farmers are set to carry out another protest rally on December 11, following Labour’s proposed changes to inheritance tax.

On November 19, up to 40,000 farmers marched on Westminster to protest Labour’s proposed changes to inheritance tax on agricultural land.

Farmers from across the UK gathered at Richmond Terrace in Whitehall before marching to Parliament Square. The rally aimed to highlight the potential impact of the tax changes on British farming, with participants donning boots, donating produce to food banks, and following organisers’ requests to leave tractors at home.

“This rally is all about landing the message that farmers produce the nation’s food, and we cannot afford this ludicrous inheritance tax change,” said organiser Olly Harrison, telling his 120,000 social media followers.

Many children led a “toy tractor parade,” symbolising the future of farming, while speeches from National Farmers’ Union president Tom Bradshaw and an appearance by TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson enhanced the rally’s message.

In a parallel effort, the NFU organized a mass lobby at Church House, where 1,800 farmers met MPs to demand action. A spokesperson for the NFU stated: “There must be a political price to pay for this decision,” as farmers sought to reverse the controversial tax policy.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed positive discussions with organisers and ensured the event proceeded safely and with minimal disruption.

Keir Starmer has said he is confident that most farmers will not be affected by the new rules. Ministers have also argued that the new rules will stop wealthy investors buying farmland to avoid inheritance tax.