Farmers Rev Up Revolt As Reeves’ Tax Raid Sparks Nationwide Protests

Farmers across the UK have intensified their protests ahead of Wednesday’s Budget, demanding that Chancellor Rachel Reeves reverse what they describe as an “unfair and unjust” raid on inheritance tax (IHT).

Hundreds of growers took part in go-slow demonstrations on Monday, staging slow-moving tractor convoys on major routes. According to organisers, thousands more are preparing to bring their tractors into London just hours before the Chancellor delivers her Budget statement.

Newbury farmer Dan Willis, one of the organisers of Wednesday’s action, said: “We are all representing the working people of Britain to keep up the pressure on this present government to withdraw the proposed inheritance tax (IHT) changes. We have not gone away and we will not back down. This unfair, unjust family farming tax needs to be reversed.”

Monday’s protest marked the third such demonstration, following similar rallies in February and December. All three were sparked by the IHT reforms announced by Reeves during her October Budget last year.

Under those plans, coming into force from April 2026, agricultural and business property assets worth up to £1 million will continue to receive 100 per cent relief. Assets above that level, however, will be subject to tax at a reduced rate — a significant departure from the long-standing system of full relief for qualifying farms.

Farmers warn that the change could threaten family farm succession, particularly in regions where land values far exceed the new threshold. Organisers of the latest protest say they will continue to escalate action unless ministers provide assurances that the proposals will be revisited.

As the sector awaits the Chancellor’s final position in Wednesday’s Budget, tensions remain high. With demonstrations gaining momentum and farming groups warning of wider consequences for food production, all eyes are now on Westminster for any sign of compromise.