Farmers hold protest over inheritance tax changes

Farmers have been holding a protest against changes to inheritance tax.

A convoy of tractors travelled down the A1 in Northumberland before converging on County Hall in Morpeth.

Those who took part said the future of their industry was at stake.

The government said it would invest £5bn into farming over the next two years, "the largest budget for sustainable food production in our country's history".

Those protesting are concerned about changes announced last autumn which they say threaten the future of many family farms by making it harder for the next generation to inherit.

Farm land is not currently subject to inheritance tax but from April 2026 any land worth more than £1m will be taxed upon the death of its owner at a rate of 20%, half the usual rate of 40%.

But Rachel Fife who farms at Chathill said "it's not just about inheritance tax".

"I'm a tenant farmer so that's not going to directly affect me but there are so many changes in the Budget that people don't realise.

"There are payments being removed, extra taxes, it's all putting pressure on an industry already struggling."

Ben Leyland, who farms near Belford, said the changes are "absolutely criminal".

"We have to stand up and protest because they are coming after people who simply cannot afford to give what they are asking," he added.

Northumberland County councillors debated a motion put forward by Conservative Mark Mather calling on the government to rethink its policies, which was backed by a majority of members.

A government spokesperson said the reform to Agricultural and Business Property Relief was "fair and balanced, affecting around 500 estates a year".

"It will mean farmers will pay a reduced inheritance tax rate of 20%, rather than the standard 40% for other businesses, and payments can be spread over 10 years, interest-free."

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