Farmers in North East Lincolnshire have conducted a ‘go-slow’ protest near Immingham Docks, vocalising their worries over prospective governmental inheritance tax changes and escalating operational costs. The peaceful demonstration involved more than 50 tractors, tankers, and muck spreaders, lasting 12 hours under the watchful eyes of Humberside Police.
The protest was instigated by Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ declaration in the previous year’s Labour Budget that inherited agricultural assets valued over £1m would face a tax rate of 20%. Demonstrator Jack Robinson voiced his disappointment, saying, ‘Feeding anyone has become unaffordable – the cost of everything has skyrocketed.’ Farmers such as Robinson are wrestling with the combined pressures of low grain prices and the forthcoming inheritance tax, which they believe renders farming progressively unsustainable.
Ed Pritchard, another farmer participating in the protest, underscored the inadequate return from their produce as a significant issue, compounded by cheap imports and a necessity for tariffs to equalise the competition.
In reaction, a government representative stood by the reforms, stating that whilst three in every four estates would pay nothing, the adjustments were designed to protect public services. They further accentuated the government’s commitment to farmers via an annual budget of £2.7bn and various additional initiatives.
Associated British Ports (ABP) recognised the farmers’ right to protest but voiced regret over the interference caused to local enterprises and communities. Along with the police and other agencies, ABP acted to alleviate the impact on the area.
The protest was part of a national day of action held by farmers across the UK, who are eager to voice their concerns on critical topics impacting the agriculture sector.
The Lincoln Post adapted this story from original coverage by www.bbc.com.
