Thousands of UK farmers are expected to converge on London on Tuesday (19) for an independent rally urging Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reverse controversial tax changes announced in the Autumn Budget.
The event, starting at 11 a.m. at Richmond Terrace, opposite Downing Street, will focus on the government’s decision to introduce a 20 per cent tax on inherited farming assets above £1 million, a move many fear could cripple family farms.
The rally coincides with a mass lobbying effort by 1,800 National Farmers’ Union (NFU) members at Church House, Westminster. Though the NFU is not organising the independent event, it has expressed support for members who wish to attend.
The rally is being led by a group of farmers, including Olly Harrison, Clive Bailye, Martin Williams, Andrew Ward, and James Mills, who have called on their peers to register online in advance. Organisers say pre-registration will help the Metropolitan Police manage attendance and allow for smooth communication of event maps and itineraries.
High-profile speakers from agriculture, politics, and media are slated to appear, with Jeremy Clarkson of Clarkson’s Farm fame among those lending their support. The rally will culminate in a procession to Parliament Square and back, led symbolically by children on pedal tractors to underscore concerns about the future of farming. NFU president Tom Bradshaw will deliver the closing address.
The Autumn Budget has drawn sharp criticism from farmers, particularly over changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR), which are set to take effect in 2026. The farming budget will remain at £2.4 billion for 2025/26, despite widespread calls for an increase to address rising costs and sustainability challenges.
Organisers warn that the proposed tax changes could have a "devastating" impact on UK farms, particularly small family-run operations. Farmers are also encouraged to bring British food items for donation to food banks as a reminder of their critical role in feeding the nation.
Farmers are being urged to leave their tractors at home due to limited space but are encouraged to attend in force to make their voices heard. This rally, which combines grassroots activism with a symbolic procession, aims to shine a spotlight on the struggles facing the farming community and demand meaningful policy changes to secure the future of British agriculture.
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