UK farmers are set to strike against new inheritance tax changes, impacting food supply.
- The strike will withhold non-perishable items from supermarkets, affecting meat and crop availability.
- Protests will include a march in London and lobbying events, with over 10,000 farmers rallying.
- Farmers fear the tax will force sales of family farms, disrupting traditional farming.
- Dairy farmers are exempt from the strike due to the perishability of milk and eggs.
Beginning Sunday, thousands of farmers in the UK are preparing for a week-long strike in protest of new inheritance tax changes. These changes, introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, impose a significant 20% tax on farms valued over £1 million that were previously exempt. This policy has sparked concern among farmers about potential forced sales and the disruption of traditional family farming.
The strike will notably withhold non-perishable goods, including meat and certain crops, from supermarkets. This action targets public awareness without completely depleting supermarket shelves, as explained by strike organizer Tim Taylor who emphasized the goal to “disrupt but not decimate supermarket shelves.”
Farmers supply approximately 80% of the nation’s beef, 90% of fresh poultry, and substantial portions of lamb, pork, and wheat. However, dairy farmers are not participating in the strike as milk and eggs are perishable and need to be supplied regularly.
The protests will include a march in London on November 19, where over 10,000 farmers are expected to gather, and a mass lobbying event by the National Farmers’ Union, which will see roughly 2,000 farmers meeting with MPs. Further actions are planned, such as potential protests at the Welsh Labour conference in Llandudno and halting sewage slurry collection from water companies.
This tax change has led to deep-seated concerns within the farming community, with some farmers worried about being the last in their families to continue the business. Notably, Welsh farmer Gareth Wyn Jones joined the strike to protect his family’s 375-year-old farm. The distress surrounding these changes is significant enough to have increased calls to mental health support lines for farmers.
The government argues that these tax adjustments are necessary to protect family farms and address public service needs. Despite these reassurances, farmers worry about long-term impacts, fearing the measures could lead to large-scale protests if not addressed. The family of John Charlesworth, a farmer who tragically took his own life due to these impending taxes, underscores the immediate emotional and financial pressures farmers face.
The planned strike underscores deep concerns in the farming community over policy changes threatening their livelihoods.
