Met Police Halts Farmers’ Budget Day IHT Protest in London

The Metropolitan Police have cancelled a planned tractor protest by farmers on Budget day, Wednesday, November 26, 2025. This decision has sparked outrage among the farming community, who believe it undermines their advocacy efforts against proposed inheritance tax (IHT) reforms.

Key Events Surrounding the Protest Cancellation

The police cited concerns over potential disruption to the community as the reason for revoking the assembly permit. According to reports, around 1,500 to 2,000 tractors were already en route to London for the protest. Farmers were set to gather at Whitehall to express their opposition to government plans that could impose a 20% tax on agricultural assets exceeding £1 million.

Organiser Reactions

Colin Rayner, a farmer from Berkshire, expressed disappointment at the police’s late cancellation. He mentioned that farmers had organized significant travel to participate, including those from Devon. Rayner accused the Metropolitan Police of biased enforcement, claiming different standards apply to farmers compared to other groups.

Another organizer, Clive Bailye, who led previous tractor rallies without incident, was surprised by the decision. He questioned the behind-the-scenes influence from government bodies potentially prompting the cancellation.

Proposal for Alternative Arrangements

The Metropolitan Police contended they offered a pedestrian-only area for the protest but did not allow tractors. Organizers labelled this move as an attempt to inhibit their right to protest effectively. They claimed that the conditions imposed were unreasonable and left no opportunity for appeal prior to the protest’s commencement.

Impact of Proposed IHT Reforms

The farmers intended to voice concerns regarding the implications of the Labor government’s taxation plans, which pose threats to family farms and related rural enterprises. By introducing substantial new tax liabilities, many farmers fear they may have to sell portions of their land.

• Saturday 26 November 2025: Planned protest day in Westminster.
• Pending IHT reforms: Proposed 20% tax on agricultural assets valued over £1 million.
• Location for alternative protest: Richmond Terrace, prohibits tractors and vehicles.

Political Reactions and Future Implications

The cancellation provoked sharp criticism from political figures, including Shadow Defra Minister Robbie Moore, who labelled the police’s decision as “absolutely outrageous.” The event’s abrupt cancellation raises significant questions regarding the government’s stance towards rural issues amidst their outreach efforts to farmers over the past year.

As the farming community prepares for the impending report on Farming Profitability, questions remain regarding how the proposed inheritance tax policies will influence their livelihoods. The public awaits clarity on the government’s commitment to supporting agriculture in light of these contested reforms.

In conclusion, the Metropolitan Police’s decision to halt the farmers’ tractor protest has ignited a significant debate about the rights of protesters and the government’s responsibility to ensure their voices are heard without restriction.