Farmers in Northumberland have taken to the streets in protest over proposed changes to inheritance tax, which they say threaten the future of their industry.
A convoy of tractors travelled down the A1 before gathering at County Hall in Morpeth, where protesters voiced their concerns. Participants warned that the changes would have far-reaching consequences for family farms.
The government has pledged to invest £5 billion into farming over the next two years, describing it as “the largest budget for sustainable food production in our country’s history”. However, the protest focused on reforms announced last autumn that would introduce a 20% inheritance tax on farmland valued at more than £1 million from April 2026. Currently, farmland is exempt from inheritance tax.
Rachel Fife, a tenant farmer from Chathill, emphasised that the issue goes beyond inheritance tax.
Ben Leyland, a farmer near Belford, described the changes as “absolutely criminal”. Northumberland County Council debated the issue, with Conservative councillor Mark Mather calling on the government to reconsider its policies. The motion was backed by a majority of council members.
A government spokesperson defended the reforms, stating that changes to Agricultural and Business Property Relief were “fair and balanced” and would affect around 500 estates annually.
“Farmers will pay a reduced inheritance tax rate of 20%, compared to the standard 40% for other businesses. Payments can also be spread interest-free over 10 years,” the spokesperson added.