The government has outlined contingency measures to ensure supermarket shelves remain stocked amid potential farmer protests over inheritance tax reforms. However, ministers reassured the public that food supplies will not be disrupted, even as tensions rise within the agricultural community.
Farming leaders have warned of deep unrest, labelling the policy change a “betrayal” of rural communities. They stopped short of endorsing strike action but acknowledged mounting frustration over the government’s decision to impose inheritance tax on farms valued over £1 million.
Addressing concerns, farming minister Daniel Zeichner urged calm. “The vast majority of farmers will not be affected,” he told the BBC. “Treasury figures indicate fewer than 500 farms a year are likely to fall within the scope of the tax. I encourage everyone to seek advice, as each case is unique.”
The reforms, which ministers argue will primarily impact the wealthiest estates, have triggered backlash from farmers who fear the policy could threaten family-run farms. Up to 20,000 farmers are expected to descend on Westminster to voice their discontent.
While defending the government’s stance, transport secretary Louise Haigh praised farmers for their contributions to the economy and food security. She described the changes as “fair and proportionate” and noted that the tax rate for affected farms is significantly lower than standard inheritance tax thresholds.
Haigh reassured consumers that the government prioritises food security, revealing that contingency plans are in place to mitigate potential disruptions. “We will work closely with farmers and the supply chain to safeguard food availability,” she stated.
Farmers, meanwhile, have staged protests, including a recent demonstration outside the Welsh Labour conference attended by Sir Keir Starmer. Some have even proposed withholding produce from retailers to highlight the country’s reliance on domestic agriculture.
Tom Bradshaw, head of the National Farmers’ Union, stressed that his organisation does not condone such measures. “Emptying supermarket shelves is not an NFU tactic,” he said. “However, I understand the depth of feeling among farmers. They feel betrayed by a government that once promised no inheritance tax on farmland.”
Bradshaw called the policy a threat to food security, citing government figures that indicate a significant number of farms producing the UK’s food exceed the £1 million threshold. “This move undermines the very industry tasked with securing our nation’s food supply for the future,” he added.