UK Inheritance Tax Changes Spark Farmer Protests

Farmers in the UK are mobilizing against impending changes to inheritance tax regulations, which will significantly reduce relief for agricultural and business assets starting April 2026. The new rules, announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, cap 100% relief at £1 million per person, with any value above this threshold subject to a 50% relief, effectively imposing a 20% tax rate on assets over £1 million. This has led to widespread concern among farmers, with the National Farmers' Union warning that over 60% of working farms could face a tax burden, potentially forcing many family farms to sell. Thousands of farmers have protested in Westminster, emphasizing the detrimental impact of these changes amid existing pressures like Brexit and economic volatility. Critics highlight that the government had previously assured the farming community against such tax adjustments, creating further distrust. While the government argues that most farms will not be affected, farmers feel this move will exacerbate their financial struggles.