Farmers across Kent and Sussex protest at Dover over changes to inheritance tax

  • ITV News Meridian's Sarah Saunders reports from Dover

Farmers have taken part in a protest at Dover over changes to the way inheritance tax is being applied to rural landowners.

More than one hundred farmers, from across Kent and Sussex, are calling on the government to reverse plans, which would see a 20% tax rate applied to all farms worth more than £1 million pounds.

The government insists that the vast majority of farms would be unaffected by the changes.

It says that up to £3 million can be passed on by two people free of inheritance tax, anything beyond that will be taxed at 20%, rather than the usual 40%.

The government insists that the vast majority of farms would be unaffected by the changes. Credit: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire/PA Images

But The NFU says it puts the future of many farm businesses under threat.

On Tuesday 19 November, farmers protested at Westminster, to urge the government to row back on its plans to change agricultural inheritance tax rules.

Around 1,800 members of the National Farmers' Union (NFU) gathered for a mass lobby of MPs, and thousands more joined a rally in Whitehall to protest against the recent Budget.

In a statement the Government said: "Our commitment to farmers remains steadfast – we have committed £5 billion to the farming budget over two years, including more money than ever for sustainable food production.

"Our reform to Agricultural and Business Property Relief will impact around 500 estates a year. For these estates, inheritance tax will be at half the rate paid by others, with 10 years to pay the liability back interest free.

"This is a fair and balanced approach which fixes the public services we all rely on."

A spokesperson for the Port of Dover said: "The Port of Dover remains committed to ensuring the smooth flow of freight and tourist traffic.

"We are aware of the farmers’ protests potentially affecting the surrounding road networks and are working closely with our partners including Kent Police and our logistics partners, to mitigate any possible impact on operations.

Farmers are calling on the government to reverse plans, which would see a 20% tax rate applied to all farms worth more than £1 million. Credit: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire/PA Images

"To maintain the efficiency of the port, we will implemented contingency measures to manage traffic effectively to ensure that goods and passengers are able to continue to move without disruption.

"We urge all travellers and hauliers to plan their journeys carefully, stay informed through official channels, and follow any guidance provided by local authorities.

"The Port of Dover respects the right to protest but emphasises the importance of safeguarding vital trade routes that support the economy and supply chains across the UK and beyond.

"We thank all stakeholders for their cooperation and patience as we work together to keep the port operational and safe."

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