Farmers in Edinburgh staged a protest against proposed changes to inheritance tax by driving tractors on the city bypass. The event, organised by NFU Scotland, was part of a larger weekend of action involving farming unions across the UK. Dozens of farmers and crofters gathered at Old Craighall before embarking on a journey along the A1, with the aim of causing minimal disruption to motorists by only blocking one lane.
Motorists passing by slowed down to watch the procession of tractors, with many honking their horns in support of the farmers. Signs reading ‘No Farms, No Food’, ‘Back British Farming’, and ‘Stop The Family Farm Tax’ were visible during the protest. The demonstration was in response to proposed UK Government changes to agricultural property relief, which would impose a 20% inheritance tax on farm businesses valued over £1 million.
NFU argued that lifting the exemption could jeopardise the viability of family farms and have a ripple effect on the entire UK supply chain. In response, the union organised the protest as an opportunity to both express gratitude to the public for their support and engage with politicians on the issue. Despite opposition, the UK government remains firm on its decision to remove the inheritance tax exemption, claiming that 75% of farms in the country will not be affected by the changes, impacting only the wealthiest farmers.
NFU Scotland President, Martin Kennedy, highlighted the essential role of farmers in rural communities and stressed the detrimental impact the proposed tax changes could have on family farms and national food security. Alongside other farming unions across the UK, NFU Scotland is actively campaigning under the hashtag #StopTheFamilyFarmTax to urge the government to reconsider the proposed taxation policies.
In conclusion, the farmers’ protest in Edinburgh sheds light on the concerns and challenges faced by agricultural communities in the wake of changing tax policies. The event not only symbolises the unity and resilience of farmers but also serves as a platform for them to advocate for their livelihoods and the future of farming in the UK.