Farmers unite in Aberdeen and Perth to voice concerns over tax relief cuts
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In a significant show of solidarity, farmers across Scotland are set to drive their tractors through Aberdeen and Perth tomorrow, protesting against the proposed changes to inheritance tax reliefs, often referred to as the “family farm tax.” This rally comes on the heels of a previous event that was postponed due to the severe weather conditions brought on by Storm Eowyn.
Concerns over family farm viability
The proposed changes to inheritance tax reliefs have raised alarms among farmers throughout the UK, who argue that these alterations threaten the very existence of family-run farms. The UK Government’s plan to reduce these vital tax reliefs, set to take effect in April 2026, is projected to impact over a quarter of all farms in the UK.
However, a recent study by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board indicates that more than 75% of Scottish farms larger than approximately 123 acres will be affected, intensifying fears among farmers.
Details of the tractor rallies
The north-east tractor rally will commence at Thainstone Mart, located near Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, at 11 am. The convoy will proceed along the A96 towards Aberdeen, making a turn at Bucksburn before arriving at Marshall’s Farm Shop in Kintore around noon. Meanwhile, in Perth, tractors will gather at Huntingtower and East Dron, departing at am to head towards Edinburgh Road, aiming to arrive by noon. This coordinated effort allows farmers to engage with the public and local politicians, fostering dialogue about their pressing concerns until 1 pm.
Political support and farmer concerns
Among the attendees at the Aberdeen rally will be Gordon and Buchan Conservative MP Harriet Cross, who expressed her eagerness to engage with farmers and address their concerns. She emphasized the importance of having Labour representatives participate in discussions regarding the industry’s challenges, a request that has so far been ignored by the Treasury. The emotional weight of this issue is particularly felt by elderly farmers, who have long intended to pass their farms down to the next generation. The looming changes to inheritance tax have left them anxious about the future of their family farms, with many fearing that their children may be forced to sell or divide the land to cover tax liabilities.
As farmers rally together in protest, they aim to raise awareness about the implications of the proposed tax changes and advocate for policies that support the sustainability of family farms across Scotland.
