Jeremy Clarkson, TV personality and owner of Diddly Squat Farm, will join a protest against the government’s new inheritance tax plans. The demonstration is set for 19 November at Westminster, where thousands of farmers are expected to rally against the recent “tractor tax” introduced by Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
New Tax to Hit Farmers Hard
Announced in the Autumn Budget, the policy will impose a 20% inheritance tax on farm estates valued over £1 million from April 2026. This tax, which affects the transfer of farms to the next generation, has sparked concern and backlash among the farming community.
Clarkson, who documents life on his West Oxfordshire farm in Clarkson’s Farm on Amazon, voiced his disapproval, saying farmers have been “shafted” by the new rules. He encouraged farmers to “look after themselves for five short years” until, in his words, “this shower will be gone.”
Clarkson’s Potential Speech and Farmer Solidarity
While Clarkson’s representative confirmed his attendance, it’s not yet decided if he will give a speech. His presence, however, will add significant pressure on the government to reconsider the tax changes. Organisers of the rally are in discussions with Clarkson, hoping he will publicly address the crowd.
Two events are planned for the day. In addition to the rally and march through Westminster, around 1,800 farmers will attend a National Farmers’ Union (NFU) meeting at Church House in Westminster.
NFU Reconsiders Protest Stance
Initially, the NFU advised its members to avoid protests, citing safety concerns. They suggested only those registered attend the formal event. However, following a strong response from members determined to make their voices heard, the NFU backed down.
Clarkson’s Fierce Criticism of Labour’s Tax Policy
Recently, Clarkson accused Labour of trying to “ethnically cleanse” rural areas by taxing farms to allow for “new immigrant towns.” The outspoken presenter described the policy as part of a “sinister plan” that makes farming “nigh on impossible” and warned it could destroy the countryside.
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