Across Gloucestershire today, farmers mobilized their tractors and rallied on the streets, expressing deep frustration with Government policies that they feel are undermining the agricultural sector.
Farmers are upset by recent changes to farm subsidies and inheritance tax rules, which they argue are threatening the future of family farms. Nigel Jones, a farmer near Cheltenham, parked his tractor outside Shire Hall in Gloucester as a symbol of protest.
Jones voiced his concerns about the Government’s approach, which he believes is damaging the farming community and the countryside itself. ‘‘Those of us who farm or inherit farms are preserving the countryside heritage passed down by our forefathers,’’ he said, ‘‘but the support that kept food prices low is disappearing, leading to inflation the Government now complains about.’’
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Jones also highlighted that much of the benefit never reaches farmers but is instead absorbed by middlemen and supermarkets. The introduction of a new inheritance tax is causing particular anxiety, with Jones warning that families may be forced to sell farms to cover the tax bills. ‘‘It’s a complete load of hogwash,’’ he remarked, ‘‘when a family must sell the farm to pay inheritance tax, where’s the money coming from?’’
This uncertainty is causing a knock-on effect, discouraging reinvestment in farms and straining associated local businesses. ‘‘Nine other businesses rely on farming, and some agricultural machinery suppliers have already shut down or laid off staff,’’ he added.
Across the county, the protest has garnered significant public support, with motorists honking and cheering farmers as they moved along major routes including the A40, A417, and A419. ‘‘We’re not here to inconvenience the public; we want them to join our cause,’’ Jones asserted. ‘‘This situation impacts every working person in the country.’’
In response, the Government emphasizes its commitment to sustainable farming and nature recovery, allocating £5 billion over two years to these efforts. It also defends changes to inheritance tax relief, which aim to make the system fairer and better targeted. From April 2026, 100% exemption will apply only to the first £1 million of agricultural and business property combined, with a 50% relief on amounts above that, effectively reducing the tax rate to up to 20%. The tax can be paid interest-free over ten years, easing the immediate financial burden.
Officials highlight that two farmland owners could pass on as much as £3 million tax-free due to additional exemptions and allowances. Data shows the top 7% of claims account for 40% of agricultural property relief costs, equating to £219 million of taxpayer expense. The Government contends that curbing relief for the wealthiest claimants enables better funding for public services.
Gloucestershire County Council has been asked to comment on the farmers’ protest and ongoing concerns.