Farmers stage tractor protests over tax changes
BBCA convoy of tractors travelled around Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire as farmers protested against the government's changes to inheritance tax on farms.
They met at supermarkets in each county before driving around Nottingham and Leicester city centres on Friday.
Working farms are currently exempt from inheritance tax but from April 2026 they will be liable to pay 20% on properties and land valued at over £1m.
The government said its commitment to farmers "remains steadfast" and that it was investing £5bn in farming over two years.
The protests were organised by fourth-generation farmer, Edward Greaves, who owns a small farm in Long Clawson in Leicestershire.
He said the campaigners visited supermarkets to highlight the connection between farmers and shoppers.
Mr Greaves added: "We want the government to listen and see that there's enough people around this country dissatisfied that they're not coming to the table about the problems they've caused."
Mr Greaves said he felt that the public was "on our side" as he and fellow farmers handed out 1,000 leaflets to shoppers at the Asda supermarket in West Bridgford.
Asda has shown support for farmers and said it had "been raising our concerns with the government".
A spokesperson said: "Farming is a vital part of our supply chain.
"We need a confident farming sector which is able and willing to invest in its future."
A government spokesperson said: "Our reform to Agricultural and Business Property Relief will mean estates will pay a reduced effective inheritance tax rate of 20%, rather than the standard 40%, and payments can be spread over 10 years, interest-free.
"This is a fair and balanced approach, which fixes the public services we all rely on, affecting around 500 estates a year."
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