Farmers’ protest live: NFU leader fights back tears as tractors block Westminster over inheritance tax rise
Tractor procession begins in Westminster as farmers continue inheritance tax protestYour support helps us to tell the storyFrom reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.Your support makes all the difference.CloseRead moreThe president of the National Farmers’ Union fought back tears as he explained the impact of tax changes on farmers to MPs, as a noisy protest by farmers took place nearby.Tom Bradshaw appeared emotional as he told the Commons Environment Committee of the “more severe human impacts” the policy could have, including the risk of farmers taking their own lives.Under the changes to inheritance tax in Rachel Reeves’ Budget, a 20 per cent levy will be charged on agricultural assets worth more than £1m. Mr Bradshaw said: “It’s not money. This is a lifetime of work, its the heritage and the custodianship of their farm.”He gave evidence as hundreds of farmers gathered in Westminster with their tractors in a second protest in as many months against Labour’s plan. Whitehall was blocked with the parked tractors before a slow procession took place of Westminster as part of the day of action organised by Save British Farming and Kent Fairness for Farmers.But Sir Keir Starmer appeared resolute on Labour’s policy when questioned during prime minister’s questions. The prime minister said: “In a typical family case, the threshold is £3m so the vast majority of farms will be unaffected, despite the fear mongering of the party opposite.”More pictures from today’s protest( More