Tractors return to city in farmers' protest

Farmers have again driven tractors into Oxford to protest the government's proposed changes to inheritance tax.

A convoy of about 10 tractors drove into the city and based itself in the New Road area near the county hall.

Loud horns were sounded and music played, with banners reading slogans such as "save British farming" and "don't bite the hand that feeds you". It is part of a day of protests organised by campaign group Farmers To Action.

A previous protest in the city attracted 100 tractors to the city's streets.

In the autumn budget, the chancellor Rachel Reeves capped the Agricultural Property Relief at £1m, with anything over that being taxed at 20%, half the normal rate of inheritance tax.

The change will be introduced from April 2026.

The government says the reforms will make inheritance tax fairer, with only the wealthiest 500 estates paying more each year.

However, many farmers argue that while they are asset rich - for example in terms of their land and livestock - they are cash poor and the changes would mean they would have to sell up to be able to pay the tax.

During the protest the Oxford Tube diverted coaches via Park End Street and was unable to stop at the Westgate.

Thames Valley Police officers were in attendance, and ahead of the convoy's arrival the force did warn of "some disruption" in the New Road area.

"Our officers will be in the area and are available to speak to and address any questions or concerns you may have," it said.

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