The UK government faces potential food shortages as farmers plan strikes over a new inheritance tax.
- Farmers express discontent with a 20% levy on agricultural land inheritance over £1 million, affecting their livelihoods.
- A significant protest involving up to 20,000 farmers is scheduled at Parliament, with further drastic actions threatened.
- Government officials, including the environment and transport secretaries, emphasise contingency plans to secure food supply.
- Meetings between farming representatives and the government aim to mitigate disruption risks.
Ministers are addressing the threat of food shortages as farmers, dismayed by a recent inheritance tax increase, prepare to strike. In the last budget, the government announced a 20% tax on inherited agricultural land valued above £1 million. This move has sparked considerable backlash within the farming community, with many feeling their livelihoods are under threat.
The planned protest is set to take place outside the UK Parliament, with up to 20,000 farmers expected to participate. Further actions, including potential blockades of key transportation hubs like ports and airports, have been suggested if demands are not met. It reflects the level of desperation and determination among the farming community, whom campaigners say feel they have ‘nothing to lose’.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed has indicated there will be no policy reversal, urging farmers to ‘check the facts’. Despite this stance, discussions are scheduled between governmental officials and farmers to explore the ramifications of any strike actions on the food supply chain, particularly concerning supermarket stocks.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh reassures that food security remains a priority, with contingency plans being developed in collaboration with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The intent is to address any potential disruptions swiftly and effectively, ensuring that the public remains unaffected by these disputes.
Clive Bailye, an arable farmer and one of the protest organisers, has voiced concerns over major disruptions if the inheritance policy is not amended. He emphasises the urgency and depth of discontent, recounting that some farmers are willing to face severe consequences in pursuit of their cause. Previous protests earlier in the year underline the persistent nature of farming grievances and their impact on the sector.
The unfolding situation underscores the critical dialogue needed between government and farmers to prevent significant economic impact.
